Early Identification and Management of Pain Catastrophizing in Primary Care

Abstract

Pain catastrophizing (PC) is an exaggerated negative cognitive response to actual or perceived pain. It can impede the effectiveness of pain management interventions and contribute to the development of chronic pain. Because PC is often accompanied by other mental health conditions, a multidisciplinary approach to pain management is essential to improve long-term outcomes. Various screening tools can be used for the early identification of individuals at risk of PC, which can improve the effectiveness of targeted pain management strategies and reduce the incidence of chronic pain.