Chapter 4. Pain and Its Influence on Assistive Technology Use

Overview

The concepts behind pain assessment in general are appropriate for people with disabilities, independent of whether they require assistive devices. Even when AT is used in assessing pain, however, it will likely be necessary for it to be superimposed on a basic understanding of what is known about the theory and practice of pain measurement. Consequently, we have reviewed evaluations of sensory, affective, and pain behavior components of pain and have paid particular attention to self-report measures. AT can play a critical role in enabling patients to communicate the pain they experience on the measures that are available. Once it is established whether a person's disability influences a person's verbal communication, motor communication, or both, AT can be combined with known, psychometrically sound pain assessment instruments to provide the most accurate picture of pain possible.

View entire Chapter 4 on print friendly page