Religious and spiritual beliefs and practices of persons with chronic pain

Ninety-five persons receiving treatment for chronic pain were surveyed using the Spirituality and Chronic Pain Survey (SCPS). The survey included a pain assessment, a spiritual/religious practices assessment, and questions related to spiritual/religious beliefs and attitudes. Most participants reported experiencing constant, higher-level pain. The most frequent responses to pain were taking medication (89%) and praying (61%). Results indicated the majority of respondents perceived God or a Spiritual Power as helping them cope with pain and as a source of happiness, connection, and meaning in life. A factor analysis on attitude items of the SCPS identified 4 factors that accounted for 60% of the variance: (a) Spiritual Connection and Meaning, (b) Spiritual Increase and Hopefulness, (c) Spiritual Decrease and Punishment, and (d) Spiritual Power. Results suggest the relevance and utility of spirituality assessment for persons who live with chronic pain. Implications for practice, education, and future research are discussed.