title: Understanding chronic pain and the mind-body connection.
abstract: This article investigates the mind-body connection in chronic pain. A discussion of pain physiology is designed to identify the role of the neurological system in chronic pain perception. The gate control theory and the neurotransmitter theory of pain are explored. A description of mind-body and pain management methods, and an illustrative case study are provided. The information presented concerning mind-body connection in chronic pain perception will enable practicing nurses to be more fully aware of the chronic pain phenomenon, and lead to better chronic pain assessment, management, and evaluation.
authors.affiliation: Christine E. Lynn College of Nursing, Florida Atlantic University, 777 Glades Rd, Boca Raton, FL 33431, USA. rmccaffr@fau.edu
authors.forename: Ruth
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: McCaffrey
authors.forename: Terri L
authors.initials: TL
authors.lastname: Frock
authors.forename: Heidi
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Garguilo
mesh_terms: D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D002908:Chronic Disease; D018939:Holistic Nursing / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D019222:Mind-Body Relations, Metaphysical; D024802:Nurse's Role; D015404:Nursing Methodology Research; D010146:Pain / Q000451:nursing* / Q000523:psychology*