title: Reactions to chronic low back pain.
abstract: Using a phenomenologic approach, the meaning of chronic low back pain to 15 individuals was examined. Interviews were conducted and analyzed and six distinct areas were identified. The focus of this presentation is limited to altered interactions and varied psychological reactions, including a negative response toward others, a desire to maintain independence, and a belief that the pain being experienced is real. The individuals experienced social isolation, enhanced awareness of others experiencing pain, and varied psychological reactions. The presence of pain affects individuals physically, but the meaning to the individual and the impact on his or her life is more far-reaching.
authors.forename: J M
authors.initials: JM
authors.lastname: Bowman
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D001294:Attitude to Health; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007398:Interpersonal Relations; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000451:nursing / Q000523:psychology*; D008297:Male; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D012934:Social Isolation