Return to ASAMS Site

Self-Management of Chronic Pain

Patient Handbook

Chronic Pain Management Program

Long Beach VA Healthcare Center

Richard W. Hanson, Ph.D., Program Director

This patient handbook, written by Dr. Hanson, was prepared for participants undergoing chronic pain management training at the Long Beach, California VA Healthcare Center. Although it is primarily intended as a supplement to psychological pain management treatment in our program, it is hoped that the information will be beneficial to chronic pain sufferers who are not undergoing formal treatment.  Before you look at the individual chapters, I recommend that you check out my "Opening Remarks."

Chapter Index

1. Introductory pain concepts 14. Depression and chronic pain
2.Biological aspects of pain 15. Anger and chronic pain
3. Biopsychosocial model of pain 16. Breaking free from chronic emotional pain
4.   Medical management and self-management 17. Pain and family relationships
5. Self-management goals 18. Chronic pain and sexual functioning
6. Pain and stress 19. Chronic pain and sleep difficulties
7. Problem identification & problem solving 20. Relating to your medical doctor
8. Acceptance of pain & disability 21. Use of pain medications
9. Using relaxation & self- hypnosis for pain 22. Developing healthy attitudes
10. Thoughts & feelings (Cognitive therapy) 23. Is there room for hope?
11. Physical exercise 24. Alternative medicine approaches to pain
12. Self-management of daily physical activities 25. Final comments regarding self management
13. Self-management of intense pain episodes 26. Recommended reading and other pain resources 

The Links Below Take You Off The ASAMS Site

Picture of Hon Code

I subscribe to the HONcode principles of the Health On the Net Foundation