Table 1. Beliefs and Attitudes about Pain and Pain Treatments.

About Pain

Pain is a natural part of the aging process

Once you get it, it only gets worse

People should expect to live with pain when they get older

Chronic pain will not get better even with treatment

It is better to persevere (and live) with pain than seek treatment for it

Complaining about pain could lead to me being labeled a bad patient

Beliefs/Attitudes about Pain Treatments

Pain medications are addictive

Pain medications cause dangerous side effects and should be avoided unless absolutely   necessary

Pain medications will stop working if taken regularly and lead to the need to take   increasing amounts over time

Exercise/physical activity hastens arthritis progression

Avoiding exercise/physical activity is a good way to minimize my pain