The Relationship of Pain Sensitivity and Severity with Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the relationship of pain sensitivity and pain severity with pain-related quality of life in patients with chronic low back pain. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted with individuals who applied to the Family Medicine Outpatient Clinic of a tertiary hospital, and who had low back pain for at least 3 months. To obtain data, Patient Information Form, Dallas Pain Questionnaire, Graded Chronic Pain Scale-Revised, and Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire were used. Results: While the total pain sensitivity of the 196 participants was detected to be moderate, 46.9% were Grade-3 according to Chronic Pain Scale-Revised. A significant correlation was found between the grade groups and age, presence of chronic disease, low back pain duration, treatment status, and compliance to advice. A significant relationship was found between grade groups and daily activities and work and leisure activities subgroups of Dallas Pain Questionnaire. The total Pain Sensitivity Questionnaire score was higher in women and those who did not receive any treatment for low back pain. Conclusion: A number of socio-demographic and low back pain related variables were associated with pain severity and sensitivity. Daily activity, and work and leisure activities, which indicate the quality of life, were negatively affected by the increase in the severity of low back pain. High pain sensitivity also negatively affects the emotional situation. Keywords: chronic pain, low back pain, pain severity, quality of life