Self-management of chronic pain: the role of religious faith

Self-management forms an essential part of the management of chronic pain. It affects approximately 7.8 million people in the UK with older people more likely to suffer chronic pain. In the UK, the National Health Service is committed to providing patient centred care, which embraces the religious and spiritual needs of patients. This aspect of care is governed by uncertainly and there is a lack of understanding about the influence of religious faith on illness and no clear guidance on how faith needs are best addressed. This study explored the inter-relationships between chronic pain and religious faith amongst older people.