Pain — whether physical or emotional — and coronavirus disease 2019 interact in ways that require integrated understanding and treatment.
The Psychology of Pain and Coronavirus Disease 2019
Pain perception is fundamentally psychological as well as physical. Coronavirus Disease 2019 lowers pain tolerance, increases pain catastrophizing, and alters how pain is processed in the brain.
Pain Catastrophizing and Coronavirus Disease 2019
Pain catastrophizing — expecting the worst from pain — is common in coronavirus disease 2019 and dramatically amplifies pain experience. Addressing this cognitive pattern reduces both pain and coronavirus disease 2019.
Integrated Pain and Coronavirus Disease 2019 Management
- Pain-focused CBT: Addresses catastrophizing and improves functioning despite pain
- ACT for pain: Build a fulfilling life even when pain and coronavirus disease 2019 persist
- Mindfulness: Changes how pain signals are processed in the brain
- Physical activity: Gentle movement is therapeutic for both pain and coronavirus disease 2019