How effective are psychological interventions for arthritis?

Living with arthritis can lead to significant psychological problems such as feelings of helplessness, depression, and anxiety that further can further exacerbate pain and disability. Chronic pain itelsef is a risk factor for depression.

A recent meta-analysis reviewed 27 individual randomized controlled trials that systematically tested the efficacy of psychosocial interventions for arthritis pain (Dixon et al, 2007). Cognitive Behavioural Therapy was the most frequently tested intervention for pain management/coping skills. Though the results for pain reduction were clinically significant, the actual effect sizes were small.

Not surprsingly, psychological interventions also had an statistically significant impact on of measures such as coping, anxiety, and depression (Dixon et al, 2007).

For patients that suffer from chronic pain or arthritis, it's important for them to be aware of how it may affect their mood and to seek appropriate treatment if they suffer from depression or an anxiety disorder that is related to their medical illness.


Dixon KE, Keefe FJ, Scipio CD, Perri LM, Abernethy AP. Psychological interventions for arthritis pain management in adults: a meta-analysis. Health Psychol. 2007 May;26(3):241-50.