PTSD and Pain: Exploring the Impact of Posttraumatic Cognitions in Veterans Seeking Treatment for PTSD

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Previous research has demonstrated a significant relationship between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and pain. While several models attempt to explain this relationship, significant questions remain regarding factors that may play a role in this interaction. The purpose of this study was to determine whether posttraumatic cognitions mediate the relationship between PTSD and pain. DESIGN: The sample comprised 136 veterans who presented to the VA Ann Arbor Health Care System seeking evaluation and treatment in the PTSD clinic. Participants completed the Clinician-Administered PTSD Scale, the Posttraumatic Cognitions Inventory, and Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, along with other assessments as part of their evaluation. RESULTS: This study showed that the majority of patients (86.8%) reported some problems with pain. Further, the findings indicate that there is a significant relationship between PTSD severity and pain severity. Posttraumatic cognitions were not related to the level of pain experienced, but they were related to pain interference in this population. CONCLUSIONS: In particular, negative cognitions regarding the self were associated with the level of pain-related interference, and partially mediated the relationship between PTSD and pain. The clinical implications of these findings are discussed.