Seeing the bigger picture: Embracing modern pain science to enhance care in the imaging department

Sophie Shephard (Presenter), Kate Dahlenburg (Presenter), Michael Neep

Research output: Other contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

Scientific understandings of pain have changed dramatically in recent years, yet it seems radiographers are being left out of these conversations, despite frequently encountering patients experiencing pain. Embracing modern pain science offers an opportunity to enhance current and future practice, and facilitate optimal patient care.

Pain is a complex phenomenon arising from the interplay of biological, psychological and social factors. It is now known that pain can occur in the absence of tissue pathology, the degree of tissue pathology cannot reliably predict pain, and that ‘pathological’ imaging findings are highly prevalent in pain-free cohorts. Clearly, pain is more complicated than once thought. This is important knowledge for radiographers, as patients may experience severe acute or chronic pain even in cases with no evidence of injury. Patients with chronic pain, particularly those without a clear pathoanatomical cause, have reported feeling stigmatised by health professionals, even accused of ‘faking’ or ‘drug-seeking’. Clinical encounters themselves have potential to increase distress, or promote trust and safety, both of which may directly influence pain. Indeed, pain severity experienced during mammograms has been linked to radiographer attitudes, opinions and communication.

This presentation will provide a summary of modern pain science, before discussing potential implications and applications within radiography practice to achieve optimal person-centred care. Avenues for future research will be highlighted, including exploration of radiographers' current understanding of pain, and the impact of enhanced pain knowledge on clinical outcomes and patient experiences in the imaging department.
Original languageEnglish
Pages48-49
Number of pages1
Publication statusPublished - 12 Apr 2023
EventASMIRT 2023 Conference - International Convention Centre, Sydney, Australia
Duration: 27 Apr 202330 Apr 2023
https://conference.asmirt.org/2023/
https://conference.asmirt.org/2023/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/ASMIRT-2023-program-FINAL-V8.pdf (Program)
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/toc/20513909/2023/70/S1 (Abstracts)

Conference

ConferenceASMIRT 2023 Conference
Abbreviated titleChampions of change. Honouring the past, embracing the present, shaping the future
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CitySydney
Period27/04/2330/04/23
OtherThe theme for this year’s Conference is Champions of change – Honouring the past | Embracing the present | Shaping the future.

We are looking for you, our current and future champions, to submit workshop proposals and abstracts. The conference will comprise an engaging program including a mixture of invited speakers, proffered papers, vibrant physical posters, specialised workshops and so much more.

Honour the past by sharing previous learnings and knowledge and how they still relate to current practice
Embrace the present by networking, collaborating and reconnecting with your peers and others in the profession
Shape the future by sharing your latest research and workplace protocols, professional standards and ongoing improvement of practice and person centred care across our profession.
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