Longitudinal qualitative perspectives of adolescents in an intensive interdisciplinary pain program

Chronic pain in children and adolescents is often associated with functional, physical, and psychosocial challenges. Intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment (IIPT) programs are effective at helping these youth regain functioning, but little is known about their perspectives prior to and during IIPT participation. This study sought to better understand how children and adolescents experience the process from evaluation to completion of the IIPT program. Individual interviews (n = 7) were conducted at three time-points; (1) prior to initial evaluation in a pain clinic, (2) after pain clinic evaluation while considering IIPT, and (3) after completion of an IIPT program. Participants ranged in age from 13–17 years. Across these time points, participants demonstrated changes in thoughts and perspectives. While Time 1 was associated with ambivalence, skepticism, and some hope, Time 2 was characterized by processing information about the program and resolution of some of their ambivalence. At Time 3, participants described their experience as "challenging" and "intense" and reported recognition that they had benefited from the program. Participants also wished to pass along lessons learned to future potential patients. This study provides information to help clinicians better approach adolescents with chronic pain who may be considering IIPT. This study, for the first time, characterizes patient experiences as they navigate entry to, beginning, and completion of an intensive interdisciplinary pain treatment program. It highlights adolescents' thought processes as they weigh whether to engage in and ultimately complete the program, providing insight on changes in their thinking over time.