The prevalence rate and the role of the spatial extent of pain in nonspecific chronic back pain--a population-based study in the south-west of Germany.

Objective: To determine the prevalence of chronic back pain in the general population and to establish an evidence-based subclassification system for chronic back pain based on pain extent.

Design: Representative population-based survey.

Setting: South-western Germany.

The prevalence and type of Axis-I and Axis-II mental disorders in subjects with non-specific chronic back pain: results from a population-based study.

Objective: To investigate the prevalence and the type of mental comorbidity in a population-based sample of subjects with non-specific chronic back pain.

Design: Representative population-based survey.

Setting: The city of Heidelberg (in southwestern Germany) and 10 adjacent communities.

Quantitative sensory testing profiles in chronic back pain are distinct from those in fibromyalgia.

Objectives: Alterations in the central nervous system leading to higher pain sensitivity have been shown in both chronic back pain (CBP) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The aim of this study was to disclose commonalities and differences in the pathophysiology of FMS and CBP.

Methods: We used the quantitative sensory testing protocol of the German Research Network on Neuropathic Pain to obtain comprehensive profiles of somatosensory functions.

Training physicians in shared decision-making-who can be reached and what is achieved?

Objective: To report on experiences with a general shared decision-making (SDM) physician training program offered to physicians throughout Germany.

Methods: This study enrolled 150 physicians in an 8-h SDM training program. Physicians were assessed with standardized instruments before and after training.

A shared decision-making communication training program for physicians treating fibromyalgia patients: effects of a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is a condition of chronic widespread pain that is difficult to control and is associated with strains in physician-patient interaction. Shared decision making (SDM) can be a potential solution to improve interaction. We evaluated the effects of an SDM intervention, including an SDM communication training program for physicians, in a randomized controlled trial with FMS patients.

Long-term effects of a shared decision-making intervention on physician-patient interaction and outcome in fibromyalgia. A qualitative and quantitative 1 year follow-up of a randomized controlled trial.

Objective: Fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) patients and their doctors frequently complain on interaction difficulties. We investigated the effects of a shared decision-making (SDM) intervention on physician-patient interaction and health outcome.

Methods: Sixty-seven FMS patients of an outpatient university setting that had been included in a randomized controlled trial were followed up.

A computer-based information-tool for chronic pain patients. Computerized information to support the process of shared decision-making.

Objective: Assessment of the use of a computerized information-tool in the context of a shared decision-making process with chronic pain patients.

Methods: In the scope of a prospective and randomized study on shared decision-making with Fibromyalgia patients, a total of 75 patients had access to computer-based information about their illness. Fibromyalgia is a condition of chronic wide-spread pain, belonging to rheumatism, which mainly affects mature female patients.

[The process of shared decision making in chronic pain patients. Evaluation and modification of treatment decisions].

Conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system are the cause of approximately 25% of absenteeism from work. Fibromyalgia syndrome is an exemplary condition of chronic widespread pain which most physicians consider difficult to manage. The physician-patient relationship is burdened with resignation and frustration on both sides.