Purpose: This study assessed the knowledge and attitudes of orthopedic certified specialists towards chronic pain. It compared these results to those of orthopedic section members in a previous study. It was hypothesized that the specialists would yield higher scores due to their amount orthopedic experience. Method: Four hundred orthopedic certified specialists were randomly tested by mail using the Chronic Pain Knowledge/Attitude Test. Results: Frequencies, means, and correlations of the 230 (57.5%) participants showed that: Eleven percent met criterion scores for attitude and 62.6% met criterion for the knowledge portion. Entry level education was felt to be inadequate by 81%, and 86% were satisfied with their current knowledge. Thirty five percent met the criterion for ability to address psychosocial issues, while 75% felt that physical therapy is beneficial for these patients, and 67% preferred to treat acute pain patients. Multidisciplinary care was thought to be needed by 194 specialists. Positive correlations were found between attitudes and years experience, and experience with chronic pain patients. Discussion: Scores on the test were higher than the section members, but still not high enough. More attention is needed in the education and skills of physical therapists for treating chronic pain.
| Date of Award | Jan 1 1998 |
|---|
| Original language | English |
|---|