Speaker: Raphael Ifrach – Physical Therapist B.P.T

By: Tal Harel – MD, Raphael Ifrach – PT, Talia Bretschneider – OT, Yogev Price – Medical Psychology intern – The Children pain relief clinic in Safra Children's hospital, Sheba Medical Center, Israel. 

The Case study main focus: Showing the positive effect of multi-disciplinary treatment in children and adolescents with chronic pain on their fear of movement.

ABSTRACT

Chronic pain in children and adolescents is a growing problem that can have serious negative impacts on their physical and mental health. Children who suffer from chronic pain often experience a lack of participation in activities, leading to feelings of isolation, depression, and anxiety. This can have long-term effects on their physical and psychological development.

It is important to recognize the signs of chronic pain in children and adolescents so that they can receive the proper treatment they need. Early intervention is key to reducing the severity of symptoms, as well as helping them cope with the condition.

Chronic pain can be a debilitating condition for children and adolescents, leading to fear of movement and avoidance of everyday activities. This fear is often due to a fear of further damage or exacerbation of the pain. As a result, these young people often find themselves in an increasingly sedentary lifestyle, which can lead to further physical and mental health issues. It is therefore important to understand the underlying sources of this fear in order to make sure that young people with chronic pain are able to participate in daily activities without fear or avoidance.

Tampa scale of Kinesiophobia is a 17 items a self-reporting questionnaire based on evaluation of fear of movement, fear of physical activity, and fear avoidance. The questionnaire using 4 points to assess that are based on; the model of fear-avoidance, fear of work-related activities, fear of movement, and fear of re-injury.

Using the Tampa scale before and after a 12 weeks multi-disciplinary rehabilitation program the included physical therapy, occupational therapy and psychological sessions, we were able to show a substantial improvement in the the patients confidence in their body and a lower fear of movement.