60 - Assessment and treatment of pain disorders in multiple sclerosis

Summary

Nearly half of individuals with chronic pain acknowledge coexisting symptoms of depression, anxiety, or both. Depression and anxiety may even contribute to the emergence of chronic pain in selected populations. A comprehensive individualized plan of care is the ultimate goal for a successful functional recovery, stabilization, and prevention of relapse for both multiple sclerosis (MS) and pain. With the high psychological and pain comorbidities noted in the MS population, treatment should include assessment, diagnosis, and attention to the myriad of symptoms an MS patient is likely experiencing. Effective treatment of psychological conditions generally includes both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy. In addition to psychotropics and psychotherapy, exercise has been found to be effective for managing pain and mood. In a study, a 10-minute exercise protocol led to significant immediate improvements in both anxiety and depression, and over a three-week span in an intensive outpatient chronic pain program, pain significantly improved.