Meaningful contributions of rehabilitation for people with persistent pain: a reflexive thematic analysis

PURPOSE: This study aims to explore the meaningful contributions of rehabilitation for participants living with persistent pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A phenomenological methodology was used. Thirteen purposefully selected participants, who self-identified as substantially improved from persistent pain due to rehabilitation, were interviewed in-depth. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analyses.

RESULTS: Participants included three men and ten women, age ranging from 22-69 years, pain duration was 2-30 years. Seven interconnected themes were developed: 1) indication of negative pain and health care experiences, 2) supporting working alliance with healthcare professionals, 3) Pain Dialogue, 4) improved self-awareness and self-regulation, 5) different view on pain, 6) autonomy and personal growth and 7) hope and new perspective. Integration of these themes provided a framework for understanding meaningful contributions of rehabilitation from the participants' perspective.

CONCLUSIONS: The study identified seven interconnected themes enhancing meaningful contributions of rehabilitation for participants who have substantially improved from persistent pain. These findings provide a novel conceptual understanding of how rehabilitation can foster recovery. The themes strongly support person-centred care, an understanding of Pain Dialogue and personal growth through the lens of the lived experience. The quality of the therapeutic relationship is considered a central vehicle for improved health outcomes.