Systematic description of an interdisciplinary multimodal pain treatment programme for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain, using the TIDieR checklist

Abstract

Abstract Objective To provide a thorough and systematic description of an interdisciplinary multimodal pain treatment programme (IMPT) for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP), using the TIDieR checklist as a guide. Results The main goal of the ‘Centre for Integral Rehabilitation (CIR) Excellent’ IMPT is to improve daily functioning, participation and quality of life of patients with CMP by helping them to adapt their behaviour so as to better manage their symptoms. A combination of physical and psychosocial treatment methods is employed, including Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET), Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), graded activity, exposure in vivo, and experiential learning through physical training. The interdisciplinary treatment team comprises physiotherapists, psychologists and a physiatrist. The programme lasts 10 weeks (61 h in total) and consists of three phases: a start (Week 1), education (Weeks 2–3), and skills learning phase (Weeks 4–10). Patients come in twice a week and participate in 2–4 sessions (3–4 h) per treatment day. The programme consists of both individual (physical and mental coaching) and group sessions (education, movement and behaviour outdoors/indoors). Individualisation through personal goal-setting is an important characteristic of the treatment, as well as frequent interdisciplinary consultation between care providers.