Pain and Pain Treatment

The course gives an introduction to the study of pain and will focus on clinical issues related to examination, diagnostics, treatment and rehabilitation. Pain pathophysiology and pharmacology will be central as well as a more thorough understanding of the bio-psycho-social pain model. Communication between patients with pain and healthcare professionals are also emphasized.
Basic pain physiology and psychological, functional and social factors that are associated with various pain conditions will be emphasized. There will also be focus on coping with pain.
The course will provide insight into organizational issues as well as thorough knowledge of the interaction across professions. The course will focus particularly on special conditions for pain in children and the elderly. Pain impact on the musculoskeletal system will also be addressed.

After completing KLH3203 the student should be able to:
* explain pathophysiological conditions that underlie various pain conditions
* explain basic pain physiology of malignant and non-malignant diseases
* describe various malignant and non-malignant diseases with relevance for pain
* account for the use of surveying tools for examination/diagnostics, observation and evaluation of patients with various pain conditions
* account for pharmacologic treatment, interventions and non-drug treatment measures by various pain conditions in different patient groups
* describe principles for the treatment of various complex symptoms, including basic pharmacological treatments, interventions and non-drug treatment
* explain physical and mental rehabilitation of patients with long-lasting pain
* describe the organization of services for patients with long-lasting pain both locally, regionally and nationally
* have basic knowledge in communication of patients with pain

Lectures and group work. All lectures will be given during a few weeks. In case of postponed examination, re-sit exam or few registered candidates, the assessment form could be subject to change. Compulsory activity: Group work with oral presentation.