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| Author | Roberta Brincat |
| Abstract | In this modern world the main objective in treatment is directly focused upon the patients' needs through client centred practice. This research study seeks to describe and understand the impact of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome type I (CRPS [I]) on an individual's occupational performances. Ten diagnosed CRPS [I] sufferers ranging in age from 29 to 59 years were investigated by using a semi-structured interview followed by two standardised assessments. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) measured occupational performances, whilst the Visual analogue scale (VAS) measured pain intensity. These investigations presented an in-depth description of the participants' views and their perspectives on responsibilities on work, leisure and self-care. Results demonstrated that CRPS [I] is a potentially debilitating syndrome. The limitations described ranged from loss of movement, impairment in sensation, physical and functional problems to a variety of emotional and psychological problems. These limitations resulted as a consequence of the significant pain, poor hand function and the negative psychological problems, which afflicted the participating CRPS [I] sufferers. Multi- linear regression tests analysed performance and satisfaction scores attained from the COPM and pain intensity scores from the VAS. Results demonstrated that a significant positive correlation exists between satisfaction and performance (p<0.05) whilst a significant Pearson Correlation was attainable for both performance and pain intensity in relation to satisfaction. In conclusion this study, demonstrated that CRPS [I] is a devastating condition, which impedes a person from carrying out a normal lifestyle. Therefore findings in this study highlight the need for a holistic approach in the management of CRPS [I] sufferers. |
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| Key words | Thesis, Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1, Occupational Performance, Occupational Therapy |