- #100 - 325 Manning Rd NE Calgary, AB, T2E 2P5
- (403) 265-3838
- (403) 351-8882 (FAX)
- #100 - 325 Manning Rd NE Calgary, AB, T2E 2P5
- (403) 265-3838
- (403) 351-8882 (FAX)
In this study, we explore the relationship between motivation and pain and disability with quality of life and psychological measures in patients with chronic whiplash associated disorders (WAD). Motivation can be investigated with the BIS (Behaviour Inhibition System)/BAS (Behaviour Activation System) scale. BIS regulates avoidance responses to unpleasant outcomes, while BAS regulates approach behaviours to rewarding stimuli and situations. We also examine if BIS and/or BAS contribute any role in the relationships between pain, disability, psychological symptoms, and quality of life.
The results showed that between 30-50% of patients with WAD demonstrated altered function in the BIS/BAS scale which suggests changes in typical reward processing and and motivation for these patients. The changes were reflected in decreased quality of life measures and increased disability and mental health measures, but not pain itself. Furthermore, while pain was associated with worse disability, there was no indication that pain influences BIS or BAS to affect measures of disability.
While the results showed there are associations between motivation and worse health outcomes, increased levels of pain remain as the main influence of altered health outcomes in patients with WAD. Motivation, as measured by the BIS/BAS scale, appears to have no impact on the effect of psychological manifestations on pain or disability. From this, we can conclude that the BIS/BAS measure does not change our current understanding of chronic pain in WAD patients.
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NOTE: This was written to help the reader become familiar with some of the research we are doing here at Vivo Cura Health. This post, and all other content on this website are not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a certified healthcare provider to discuss if a treatment is right for you.
