Psychological flexibility, mindfulness and acceptance, an innovative model and techniques for psychosocial management of chronic pain: Implications for physical therapy

Abstract

Psychological Flexibility (PF) model is a new development from a biopsychosocial perspective. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy based on PF which is considered a well-established psychological treatment for chronic pain. A growing evidence in chronic pain field shows accepting pain and discomfort instead of trying to avoid it, or to disconnect from or suppress pain experience or related thoughts, combined with engaging in goal-directed actions in the presence of ongoing pain, can be more effective in the long run and can increase quality of life. Mindfulness-based approaches and other acceptance techniques can help to increase PF. Studies have showed brief training based on PF can help physiotherapists working with complex patients presenting emotional distress and pain-related disability, and point at potential barriers and facilitators to embedding an ACT philosophy within a physiotherapy setting.