Effectiveness of a Training Program in Improving Coping Skills in People With Arthritis Pain

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the leading cause of disability in the United States. Studies have shown that training patients to cope with pain improves physical and social functioning, increases self-efficacy, and reduces psychological distress. However, this type of training is not available to the vast majority of OA patients. This study will determine the effectiveness of a training program for coping with pain that will be administered in community medical practices. A THIRD ARM OF THE TRIAL WAS FUNDED 09/09. TREATED PATIENTS WILL BE RANDOMIZED TO (1)A 4-MONTH COMPUTER-DRIVEN TELEPHONE PROGRAM TO ENHANCE MAINTANENCE OF TREATMENT GAINS OR (2)USUAL CARE. THIS ARM WILL ONLY BE CONDUCTED AT THE STONY BROOK SITE.