The Prevalence and Impact of Back and Neck Pain in Veterans With Upper Limb Amputation. (November 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Resnik, Linda; Borgia, Matthew; Clark, Melissa A.
• Is Part Of: American journal of physical medicine & rehabilitation. Volume 100:Number 11(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-11
• Subjects: Amputation -- Upper Limb -- Epidemiology -- Back Pain -- Neck Pain -- Veterans; Rehabilitation -- Periodicals; Medicine, Physical -- Periodicals; 617.062
• DOI: 10.1097/PHM.0000000000001694
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0894-9115

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: The aims of the study were (1) to describe frequency of back pain only, neck pain only, and co-occurring pain in veterans with upper limb amputation, (2) to examine changes in pain over 1 yr, and (3) to quantify the association of pain and health-related quality of life and disability. Design: This is an observational cohort study with a survey of a sample of 792 veterans with upper limb amputation, with 1-yr reassessment of 585 (85.3%) of 777 eligible participants. Pain prevalence and intensity were examined. Logistic and linear regressions identified variables associated with pain and examined associations between intensity and veterans RAND-12 mental component score and physical component score and QuickDASH. Results: At baseline, 52.3% had co-occurring pain, 20.0% had back pain, and 8.3% had neck pain. Persistent back and neck pain is present in 60.8% and 48.1% respondents, respectively. Pain intensity was unchanged for 59.1% with back pain and 61.3% with neck pain. Mental component score and QuickDASH were significantly worse with severe and moderate back and neck pain, compared with no pain. Severe/moderate back pain intensity was associated with lower physical component score. Conclusions: Back and neck pain is highly prevalent and persistent in veterans with upper limb amputation. Pain intensity is negatively associated with health-related quality of life and disability. Pain prevention and intervention are needed in this population. Abstract : Supplemental digital content is available in the text.