The Activity Management Inventory for Pain (AMI-P)

Abstract

Objectives: Activity management is an important treatment component in chronic pain programs. However, there are shortcomings in measures of this construct, leading to inconsistencies in research findings. Here, we describe the development of the Activity Management Inventory for Pain (AMI-P). Methods: The AMI-P was developed by a group of international researchers with extensive expertise both in chronic pain and activity management. The initial evaluation of the AMI-P items included two studies that were both conducted in Canadian tertiary pain care centers. Results: The resulting 20-item measure has three behavior scales (Rest, Alternating Activity, Planned Activity), and four goal scales (Feel Less Pain, Get More Done, Complete the Task, Save Energy). The behavior scales evidenced marginal to good internal consistency and test-retest reliability, and a moderate positive association with an existing pacing measure. The Rest and Alternating Activity scales were associated with greater pain interference, the Alternating Activity and Planned Activity scales were associated with less satisfaction with social roles, and the Planned Activity scale was associated with fewer depressive symptoms. The Alternating Activity scale increased significantly from pre- to post-treatment. All goal scales were positively associated with all behavior scales. The Feel Less Pain goal scale was positively associated with measures of avoidance and pain interference, while the Get More Done goal scale was negatively associated with measures of depressive symptoms and overdoing. Discussion: The findings support the reliability and validity of the AMI-P scales, while also highlighting the complexity and multidimensional aspects of activity management.