Self-concept: an outcome of a program for spinal pain.

Changes in self-concept were studied in 50 patients with chronic spinal pain who underwent a 4 week inpatient program. Treatment included increasing quotas for activity and walking, patient education, reduction in pain medications, and reinforcement of non-pain behaviors. The instrument used to measure change was the counseling form of the Tennessee Self-Concept Scale (TSCS). The test was administered upon admission to the program, at discharge, and at 1, 3, and 6 months following discharge. TSCS scores were also compared with those of patients who failed to complete the program and of a quasi-control group of patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The spinal pain group improved significantly on 8 scales of the TSCS, while scores for the arthritis patients were constant over the 6 month period. The program had a positive effect on self-concept and thus should be considered for patients with chronic spinal pain.