The Impact of Wound-Related Pain on Quality of Life, Psychosocial Well-Being and Pain Beliefs in Individuals With Chronic Lower Limb Wounds.

Chronic lower limb wounds are frequently accompanied by persistent wound-related pain (WRP), which can impair physical functioning, emotional well-being and coping capacity. Despite its prevalence, the multidimensional impact of WRP remains under-recognised in routine wound care. This study examined the relationship of WRP on quality of life (QoL), physical health, psychosocial well-being and pain-related beliefs. A cross-sectional survey of 105 patients attending an outpatient wound clinic was conducted. Participants were stratified by the presence or absence of WRP. Validated self-report instruments assessed pain severity, physical function, emotional distress, depressive symptoms and coping strategies. Participants with WRP completed additional measures of psychological distress and pain catastrophising. Data were analysed using t-tests, ANOVA and Spearman's correlations. Patients with WRP reported significantly higher pain severity (SF-MPQ: 17.2 vs. 3.8, p < 0.001), greater physical disability (M-RMDQ: 11.1 vs. 5.3, p < 0.001) and increased stress (DASS-21: 4.7 vs. 2.4, p = 0.007). WRP was associated with maladaptive coping, including catastrophising and praying/hoping. Continuous pain was linked to higher catastrophising, particularly magnification and rumination. Younger patients demonstrated greater maladaptive pain beliefs. WRP in chronic wounds is a complex biopsychosocial phenomenon. Integrating pain management with psychological support and patient education may improve coping, reduce distress and healing outcomes.