Group treatment for pain and discomfort

Rheumatic patients very often suffer from chronic pain and impairment and show psychological reactions as a consequence of their physical condition. These reactions may vary from psychophysiological symptoms to anger, anxiety, or depression. We developed a cognitive-behavioral treatment programme in a group setting format with components of relaxation, cognitive restructuring, and the promotion of well-being. Subjects included in the study were given diagnoses of low back pain, tension headache, rheumatoid arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. Treatment effects in different diagnostic groups were compared to each other, supporting the assumption that pain reduction is greatest in low back pain and least in ankylosing spondylitis. Subjects with inflammatory rheumatic diseases showed some improvement in self-reported physical complaints and in their feelings of well-being.