Personality characteristics, perception of pain and the attainment of self-care in patients with spinal fusion
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Date
2017-06
Authors
Van der Merwe, Chanette
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Free State
Abstract
Background
Self-care activities are often most affected after a spinal fusion and are
priority goals of the individualised treatment approach. Many patients
undergo spinal fusions with similar levels and instrumentation. Despite
procedural similarities, some patients return to participation within self-care
activities effortlessly, whilst others display delayed independence. Literature
suggests that personality traits and patients` perceived experience of pain is
two contributing factors in rehabilitation. The aim of this study was to
investigate the associations between these factors.
Methods
A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. The study population
included 61 patients who underwent a spinal fusion amid October 2015 and
June 2016. Data was gathered pre-operatively and post-operatively. Selfcompiled
- and standardised questionnaires were used to measure pain,
personality and self-care activities.
Results
Perfectionism (57.4%), tension (44.3%) and apprehension (44.3%) were
high-indicated primary factors. Low emotional stability and seriousness were
found in majority (73.8%) of the participants.
Study participants (49.2%) who had high functional impairments due to pain
displayed high levels of anxiety. Low levels of functional impairments were
related to high levels of independence, tough-mindedness and self-control.
Caring for toe nails, drying hair and engaging in sexual intercourse were the
most affected self-care areas pre- and post-operatively. 68.9% of participants
attained both self-care goals.
Conclusion
Participants with high anxiety and low independence, tough-mindedness and
self-control, experienced more pain. Higher levels of pain are associated with
decreased goal attainment. However, despite a higher pain perception, the
presence of certain personality characteristics namely: low extraversion, high
independence and self-control leads to higher goal attainment. Results
confirm that personality characteristics influence pain perception and the
attainment of self-care goals.
Description
Keywords
Spinal fusion, Self-care, Health, Patients -- Rehabilitation, Pain -- Management, Dissertation (M. Occupational Therapy (Occupational Therapy))--University of the Free State, 2017