Why, when and how to perform a multiaxial, biopsychosocial or psychological assessment of the patient with pain?

Abstract

This article intends to discuss some theoretical aspects that support the biopsychosocial understanding of pain, providing the basis for making a diagnosis that considers the multidimensionality of the pain phenomenon. These considerations will be woven from a narrative review of some central concepts relating to the multidimensionality of pain, the aspects to be accessed in a multiaxial assessment and a reflection on the methods to be used in this process, describing the indications for a biopsychosocial assessment and establishing the objectives of biopsychosocial assessment with an emphasis on the approach of different professionals. This theoretical reflection is based on some scientific articles and reference chapters in the area, without the intention of exhausting all literature. The results from this discussion suggest that all professionals who care for patients with pain, regardless of their area of ​​expertise, should consider the biological, behavioral, cognitive and affective dimensions of the painful experience, and should use an anamnesis that investigates these aspects, as well as scales/inventories. that facilitate the tracking of important elements for understanding this phenomenon. This theoretical review also suggests that more structured feedback be given to patients with chronic pain about the multidimensionality of factors that may contribute to the development or maintenance of chronic pain.Keywords: Pain; Biopsychosocial model; Biopsychosocial assessment; psychological assessment.