Long-term follow-up of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain attending interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation: outcomes and predictive factors

• Published in: International journal of rehabilitation research Vol. 44; no. 2; p. 110
• Main Authors: Boonstra, Anne M, Hoogers, Judith M B, Stewart, Roy E, Reneman, Michiel F, Schiphorst Preuper, Henrica R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 01.06.2021
• ISSN: 1473-5660
• DOI: 10.1097/MRR.0000000000000467

The long-term outcomes of interdisciplinary pain rehabilitation (IPR) in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) and its predictors has been studied to a limited extent. In this historical cohort study, functioning, satisfaction with life domains, and pain were assessed at baseline, discharge, and at 6-15 years follow-up. At follow-up, most patients (77%) rated the effects of the IPR as temporarily or persistently positive. The gains in functioning, satisfaction with life domains, and pain made during IPR remained for 6-15 years after the IPR. Patients who were single, retired, or not in work, and those having higher pain and lower functioning at baseline, had lower functioning at follow-up, while patients with traumatic pain disorders had higher functioning at follow-up. Gains made during IPR, particularly gains in social and mental functioning and in pain predicted functioning at follow-up. Treatments and events between discharge and follow-up also influenced the long-term outcome. In conclusion, on average, outcomes achieved during IPR persisted at long-term follow-up. Predictors of a better long-term outcome were mainly baseline characteristics.