PATIENT PERCEPTION ABOUT CHRONIC PAS AND THEIR BEHAVIOURAL MODELS TO PAIN IN TAMIL NADU – A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Background: PAS, often misinterpreted by patients as "frozen shoulder," is a common health risk with various etiologies and stages. There is a significant gap in patient understanding of these nuances, particularly in Tamil Nadu, where socio-economic factors further influence health behaviours and perceptions. Objective: This qualitative study aims to explore patient perceptions of PAS in Tamil Nadu and identify behavioural models related to pain management in this population. Methods: A series of in-depth interviews were conducted with patients diagnosed with PAS across various socio-economic backgrounds in Tamil Nadu. The data was analyzed thematically to uncover patterns in patient perceptions and behaviours. Results: The findings revealed that the majority of patients term all shoulder pains as "frozen shoulder" and are largely unaware of the different stages and etiologies of PAS. A prevalent belief is that diabetes is strongly linked to their shoulder condition, while the lack of physical activity is not commonly associated with the issue. Behaviors regarding pain management are heavily influenced by socioeconomic status and appear to be independent of educational status. Common behaviours include ignorance of the condition and an expectation of automatic healing. Many patients seek medical help, often resorting to self-medication without proper prescriptions. Only a small proportion seek the help of physiotherapists. Additionally, patients frequently turn to online sources for pain management advice. Conclusion: The study underscores a significant need for targeted educational interventions to address misconceptions and promote appropriate pain management behaviours among patients with PAS in Tamil Nadu. Socioeconomic status plays a critical role in shaping patient behaviours, highlighting the need for accessible and affordable healthcare solutions.