Table 1 Contents of each of the six sessions
All sessions commence with a short presentation of the day's session, new participants are introduced, and homework and questions from the previous session are discussed. | |
|---|---|
Session A – preoperative | |
CBT | Physical and psychological reactions in stressful situations. |
The link between thoughts, feelings, bodily reactions and behaviour. | |
Preparing for surgery | What to expect of the operation and the postoperative course. |
Homework | Identify and write down thoughts and feelings in relation to painful or stressful situations. Consider and write down alternative and realistic thoughts. |
Session B – preoperative | |
CBT | Causes and consequences of pain. The fear-avoidance belief model and the importance of physical activity in reducing pain. |
Preparing for surgery | Pleasant activity scheduling and activity pacing. |
Ergonomics - working posture following surgery. | |
Homework | Identify and write down 3 activities you used to enjoy. Plan and go through with them considering your pain level. How did it affect your mood and pain level? |
Session C – preoperative | |
CBT | The link between thoughts, feelings, bodily reactions and behaviour. |
Negative automatic thoughts and their role in maintenance of a vicious circle. | |
Active and passive coping strategies. | |
Homework | Identify and write down your own coping strategies when in pain and distress. |
Try to use active coping strategies. How did it affect your pain level? | |
Session D – preoperative | |
CBT | How to cope with pain and distress in relation to family, friends and work. |
Preparing for surgery | The experiences of a previously operated patient. |
Legislation and procedures in the authorities when being on sick leave and in relation to return to work. | |
Homework | Say no to 3 tasks, that you would usually agree to do, despite not being comfortable doing it. |
Promt a friend, colleague or family to give you a positive support remark. | |
Give a friend, colleague or family a positive remark and notice the reaction. | |
Follow-up session 1 – postoperative (3 months) | |
CBT | Reflection of how patients have used the acquired cognitive techniques and coping strategies postoperatively. |
Using pacing techniques to restart daily activities, hobbies and work. | |
Homework | Goal setting for the next three months. |
Use pacing techniques to achieve one or more of your goals. | |
Follow-up session 2 – postoperative (6 months) | |
CBT | Reflection of how patients have used the acquired cognitive techniques and coping strategies during the past 3 months. |
Discussion of achievements of previously set goals. Setting future goals. | |
Coping with flare-ups. | |
Returning to work – expectations, worries and how to cope with barriers. | |