Affiliation:
1. Chronic Pain Service Te Whatu Ora Counties‐Manukau Auckland New Zealand
2. Department of Physiotherapy Auckland University of Technology Auckland New Zealand
3. Centre for Person Centred Research Auckland University of Technology Auckland New Zealand
Abstract
AbstractIssue AddressedEthnic disparities in chronic pain exist in Aotearoa New Zealand, including a greater impact of pain, less access to chronic pain services and less benefit from treatment for Pasifika people. This study investigated Sāmoan health perceptions and beliefs in relation to pain and how it is managed.MethodsAn interpretive descriptive study was undertaken involving interviews with nine Sāmoan key informants from Aotearoa New Zealand. Interviews explored their beliefs in relation to interpretations of pain and experiences of and preferences for pain management. Interviews were recorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsFour main themes were constructed from the data. Pain is interpreted holistically described the attribution of pain to many causes, without limitation to physiological explanations. Stoicism is a character virtue described the predominant belief that pain should be endured without display or complaint. Strength in connectivity described the inherent pain coping strategies that are present within Sāmoan communities. To improve healthcare is to nurture vā described the disconnect Sāmoan people feel from healthcare services and the need to foster relationships to improve health delivery.ConclusionsSāmoan people have beliefs and perceptions about pain and its management that extend beyond traditional Western interpretations. While pain is often endured using traditional strengths within the ‘āīga (family) and community, the Sāmoan community faces challenges in receiving healthcare from mainstream pain services.So What?Clinicians need to foster stronger relationships with Sāmoan individuals and their ‘āīga and appreciate the wider psychosocial context of pain, including spirituality.
Funder
Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand
Subject
Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health,Community and Home Care
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