Does acceptance of pain predict pain related anxiety in chronic pain patients?

Background and aims: The aim of the study is to explore, longitudinally, the role of the construct of acceptance, as measured by the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (CPAQ), in the development of pain-related anxiety in chronic pain patients. Methods: 31 patients seeking treatment for chronic pain completed the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire subscales (Activity Engagement-AE and Pain Willingness-PW) and the Pain Anxiety Symptom Scale (PASS), separated by an average of 12,6 months. Hierarchical regression analyses were performed. Results: Activity Engagement, but not Pain Willingness, was associated with the presence of pain related anxiety after 12.6 months. Conclusion: The incapacity to engage in the normal life activities regardless of pain seems to predict the development of pain related anxiety in patients with chronic pain.