Pain in Medicine

The director of Vlaštovka, Michaela Váňová, contributed a chapter titled "End-of-Life Pain Eased Through Art" to the Czech Medical Chamber’s book Pain in Medicine. The book was published by Grada and is available in both print and digital formats here.

The monograph includes 39 texts by 46 authors who explore pain from various perspectives—clinical, psychological, ethical, legal, and theological. In addition to medical aspects, it also reflects on deeper questions about the meaning and role of pain in human life.

Michaela Váňová’s chapter, "End-of-Life Pain Eased Through Art," focuses on the role of artistic expression in palliative care. The author examines how art and play can help families and patients in terminal stages cope with pain and emotional stress. She highlights the importance of sensory and emotional experiences that can provide relief, support, and new ways of communication between patients, their loved ones, and healthcare professionals. The chapter also draws on the experiences of play specialists and artists involved in palliative care, and explores the potential for integrating art with medical and psychological approaches to patient support.

PTÁČEK, Radek a BARTŮNĚK, Petr (ed.). Bolest v medicíně. Edice celoživotního vzdělávání ČLK. Praha: Grada, 2024. ISBN 978-80-271-5562-0.