Chronic post-ICU pain: A review of the mechanism and the rehabilitation management

Objectives: This review aimed to explore the pain mechanism and rehabilitation management of functional impairments due to chronic post-ICU pain (CPIP). Methodology: Articles were searched using PubMed and Google Scholar databases with keywords chronic pain, chronic post-ICU pain, persistent pain, ICU-related pain, ICU survivor, and rehabilitation. All types of articles that were written in English and available in full-text format were considered for analysis. Results: The cause of CPIP is not certainly known, but several factors associated with the incidence of CPIP have been identified including genetic, premorbid conditions, medical intervention, and ICU care, as well as psychological or social factors. CPIP management aims to prevent disabilities due to chronic pain and improve functional abilities. The rehabilitation program of CPIP begins with a prevention program from the acute phase to the follow-up phase. The rehabilitation program consists of physical modalities, exercise, occupational therapy, and psychological or social counseling, as well as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). The CBT program has been shown to be effective in improving long-term outcomes, preventing the incidence of PICS, and improving the functional status of ICU survivors. Abbreviations: ADL- Activities of Daily Living; ARDS- Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome; CBT- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; CPIP- Chronic Post-ICU Pain; ICU- Intensive Care Unit; PTSD- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder; QoL- Quality of Life Conclusion: CPIP caused functional impairments in ICU survivors and rehabilitation management has been proven beneficial in improving functional outcomes. Keywords: Chronic Pain; Counseling; Intensive Care Unit; Survivors Citation: Nazir A. Chronic post-ICU pain: A review of the mechanism and the rehabilitation management. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(1):159−165; DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i1.2389 Received: September 06, 2023; Reviewed: October 30, 2023; Accepted: December 09, 2023