Managing Persistent Pain in Adolescents A Handbook for Therapists

Rogers, an occupational therapist at Royal Children's Hospital, Australia, promotes a multidisciplinary approach to pain management in adolescent patients, acknowledging that persistent pain is a complex biopsychosocial problem. The book considers factors such as lifestyle, family relationships, and self-management, and describes practical, applied strategies incorporating meditation, relaxation and imagery exercises, and physical fitness. Case studies, a glossary, and patient handouts are included. The book is for practitioners who treat adolescents with persistent pain, including nurses, occupational therapists, psychologists, physiotherapists, acupuncturists, and counselors. The book is also accessible to parents and families.

This no-nonsense guide promotes a multidisciplinary approach to pain management in adolescent patients, acknowledging persistent pain is a complex biopsychosocial problem. With a strong focus on highly practical, applied strategies incorporating beliefs and values, mediation, relaxation, imagery, physical fitness and pacing, the book examines the many issues surrounding persistent pain. The thoughtful, compassionate approach considers lifestyle, family considerations and self-management in this unique population. Medical and psychological issues are highlighted throughout, with extensive use of case studies to illustrate important topics and potential obstacles. For Allied Health Professionals working with adolescent patients, this is the ideal practical guide.

The how and why of pain –educating about pain and what influences it. Medical matters –about diagnosis, tests and disorders. Pain and the family – how families contribute. Sleep – sleep and sleep habits. Making changes – about values, goals and motivation. Dealing with the pain – coping factors and managing flare-ups. Mindfulness and relaxation and imagery – how to teach skills. Thoughts and words –language and its role in behaviour. Getting fit - a fitness regime, pacing and managing barriers. Returning to school – what influences a successful plan.