Distress in spouses of chronic pain patients

This paper critiques the research on distress in spouses of chronic pain patients and includes a review of two studies of spouses conducted at the Miriam Hospital Chronic Pain Research Unit. The clinical implications of this research are discussed and case material is presented to illustrate the role of spouse distress in the treatment of patients with chronic pain. Future directions for research in this area are recommended.The research conducted at the Miriam Hospital Chronic Pain Research Unit was supported by the Alcohol, Drug and Mental Health Administration of the National Institute of Mental Health, Small Grants Program, Grant No. 1 R03 MH39257001A1.