Cognitive factors are associated with disability and pain, but not fatigue among physiotherapy attendees with persistent pain and fatigue

• Published in: Physiotherapy 2020-03, Vol.106, p.94-100
• Main Authors: Thompson, Dave P., Antcliff, Deborah, Woby, Steve R.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Catastrophization; Chronic pain; Fatigue; Rehabilitation; Self-efficacy
• ISSN: 0031-9406; 1873-1465
• DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2019.01.006

Most research exploring the relationship between cognitive factors and pain, disability and fatigue in patients with persistent pain/fatigue has been performed in multi disciplinary environments. It is unclear whether these associations are consistent in other contexts. This study therefore aimed to establish the relationships between these factors in patients with persistent pain/fatigue referred for physiotherapy treatment. Cross-sectional observational study assessing the association between cognitive factors (self-efficacy and catastrophizing) and levels of pain, disability, mental fatigue and physical fatigue in patients with persistent pain/fatigue disorders. Data were analysed using regression analyses. Two out-patient physiotherapy departments, Manchester, UK. 166 patients with persistent pain and fatigue disorders chronic widespread pain, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalopathy). Disability was assessed using the Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire, whilst mental and physical fatigue were assessed with the sub-scales of the Chalder Fatigue Scale. Pain intensity was measured with a Numeric Pain Rating Scale, self-efficacy with the Chronic Pain Self-efficacy Questionnaire and catastrophizing with the Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Cognitive factors were significantly associated with pain (self-efficacy beliefs β=−0.30, P