Abstract

ASSESSMENT OF PAIN EXPERIENCE AND MANAGEMENT: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

N. L. Swathi*, Bhukya Nom Kumar Naik, Maleehah Faatimah, M. Rajeswari and T. Nirmala Devi

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Abstract

Background: Pain management is a multifaceted process, involving various therapeutic modalities aimed at addressing different pain types, including nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain. Understanding the factors influencing pain experiences and the effectiveness of management strategies is crucial for improving patient outcomes. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the experiences of individuals with pain and their management strategies, focusing on the relationship between pain type, cause, and the effectiveness of treatments. Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 103 participants, collecting data on demographic characteristics, pain types, pain causes, management strategies, and the impact of pain on daily life. Data analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics, including ANOVA and paired t-tests, to evaluate the associations between pain intensity, causes, and treatment effectiveness. Results: The study revealed a significant association between specific events, such as injury or trauma, and elevated pain levels (p = 0.024). The severity of pain was also significantly linked to its cause (p = 0.016). However, the location of pain within the body did not significantly correlate with pain intensity (p = 0.470). Treatment effectiveness showed a substantial reduction in pain levels (p < 0.001), highlighting the importance of medical interventions in pain management. Conclusion: The findings underscore the complex nature of pain experiences, suggesting that tailored interventions are required to address individual pain triggers effectively. While various treatment modalities significantly reduce pain intensity, the results indicate a need for further research into long-term pain management strategies. The study provides a foundation for future research and can inform clinical practice by emphasizing personalized pain management protocols. Limitations: The study's reliance on self-reported data and its crosssectional design limit the ability to establish causal relationships. Further longitudinal research with standardized assessment tools is recommended to strengthen these findings.

Keywords: Pain management, Cross-sectional study, Pain intensity, Pain cause, Treatment effectiveness, Chronic pain, Personalized interventions, Pain assessment.