Mind Over Gut: Psychosocial Management of Pediatric Functional Abdominal Pain

Introduction: Functional abdominal pain (FAP) refers to a common set of symptoms that characterizes abdominal pain for which there is no identifiable organic disease process. FAP is associated with functional disability, but understanding of its pathogenesis is incomplete. The condition appears to stem from an interaction between physical and psychological mechanisms. Method: A literature search was conducted to explore the psychosocial management of FAP and the role of nurse practitioners in treatment. Results: A growing body of evidence supports the efficacy of psychosocial interventions, including cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnotherapy, and multidisciplinary treatment programs. There are no randomized controlled trials at the primary care level to guide management. Discussion: Nurse practitioners can provide the supportive and consistent patient-provider relationship that is integral to the management and treatment of FAP. More research is necessary to understand how best to incorporate behavioral interventions into primary care practice.