The role of occupational therapy in enabling people with chronic pain to return to work or education

Publication date: Available online 3 July 2019Source: Anaesthesia & Intensive Care MedicineAuthor(s): Wendy Hill, Michelle MacartneyAbstractOccupational therapy is based on the premise that there is an intrinsic relationship between occupations, health and wellbeing. Chronic pain restricts the performance of activities that individuals need to, want to and are expected to perform, including working or studying. Young people who have a chronic pain condition may be restricted in their participation with school or higher education which can result in them being disadvantaged regarding their future potential for employment. Work is central to most adults’ occupational identity and is therefore a key focus for occupational therapy intervention. In addition to the strategies used generally with patients, such as activity management, activity adaptation and the development of coping strategies, occupational therapy with young people and adults who want to access work and/or education will address the biological, social and psychological barriers to returning or remaining at school or work. The aim of this article is to explain the role and value of occupational therapy within the pain management team in relation to enabling patients return or remain in work or education.

Source: Anaesthesia and intensive care medicine - July 3, 2019 Category: Anesthesiology Source Type: research