Interdisciplinary Therapeutic Intervention for People With Persistent Pain

Introduction and Social Justification The project "Interdisciplinary Therapeutic Intervention for People with Persistent Pain" emerges as an innovative response to the complex problem of chronic pain, a condition that transcends physical limitation to deeply affect people's psychological, social, and economic well-being. This proposal is framed within a social innovation model, integrating professional knowledge with community expertise to offer a comprehensive, person-centered approach.

Project Objectives The general objective of this research is to implement an interdisciplinary therapeutic intervention that addresses the physical, psychological, social, and nutritional dimensions of people with persistent pain to optimize their quality of life. To achieve this, specific objectives have been established, including the design and execution of a therapeutic plan that combines physical activity, health education, nutritional counseling, and psychological support. Furthermore, the project seeks to promote self-management of the persistent pain condition, evaluate the functional, nutritional, and psychosocial impact associated with pain, and strengthen local health networks through the linkage between territorial actors, community organizations, and academia.

Intervention Components The intervention is structured around four key components. First, aerobic physical activity is included, which consists of low-to-moderate intensity therapeutic exercises that are progressive and adapted; these will be performed by physical therapists (kinesiologists) and include between 12 and 16 sessions distributed over two months. Second, therapeutic education will be provided through talks on the pathophysiology of pain, coping strategies, and healthy habits, all executed in an online format. Third, the nutritional approach will include an assessment of nutritional status, considering weight and body composition, as well as personalized counseling on anti-inflammatory nutrition, hydration, and key micronutrients. Finally, the mental health component will integrate the use of cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and stress management techniques to strengthen the participants' resilience and emotional regulation.

Methodology and Study Design The study is defined as descriptive-associative with a quantitative, longitudinal approach. The research focuses on members of the Fibromyalgia Corporation of the Valparaíso Region, with a non-probabilistic convenience sample composed of 20 people.

Among the evaluations performed, nutritional status is measured through the calculation of BMI, fat mass, and muscle mass, using an Omron HBF514 scale and a Seca 213 stadiometer, in addition to applying food frequency questionnaires. To evaluate functionality and physical capacity, instruments such as the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, hand dynamometry, the 6-minute walk test, and the SF-36 quality of life questionnaire are applied. Finally, for psychosocial perception, various validated scales are used, such as the VAS (Visual Analog Scale), the McGill Pain Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia.

Safety, Ethics, and Confidentiality The project guarantees professional and ethical treatment at all times. In the event of any potential physical or emotional discomfort that may arise, effective mitigation measures have been planned, such as the gradual progression of physical activities and the provision of emotional containment spaces during psychological interventions. All data collected from participants will be anonymized through the assignment of alphanumeric codes and will be guarded under strict confidentiality protocols for a period of three years. Participation in this study is entirely voluntary and will be formalized through an informed consent process that is clear and understandable to all involved.

Research Team The project is led by physical therapist (kinesiologist) Marco Antonio Higueras Contreras, Master in Orthopedic Manual Therapy, together with nutritionist Natalia María Muñoz Palma, Master in Pedagogy and Nutrition. Both are professors at the University of Playa Ancha and have extensive academic and professional experience in the areas of rehabilitation, diet therapy, and the management of chronic conditions.