Background and Aim:

Chronic pain is one of the major medical challenges worldwide, significantly affecting patients’ quality of life. Individuals with chronic pain often report cognitive impairments, particularly in working memory and inhibitory control. Although numerous studies have indicated a link between chronic pain and deficits in cognitive functions, some evidence suggests that these impairments may be more closely related to mood factors, especially depression. Therefore, the present study aims to examine the mediating role of depression in the relationship between chronic pain, working memory, and inhibitory control in patients with chronic pain.



Methods:

This descriptive–correlational study will be conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM) with a partial least squares (PLS) approach. The study population includes all adults with chronic pain who refer to pain and physical medicine clinics in Najafabad in 2025. A purposive sample of 100 patients will complete the Demographic Information Form, the McGill Pain Questionnaire (MPQ), the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), and the Adult Executive Functioning Inventory (ADEXI). Data will be analyzed using SPSS and SmartPLS software.



Expected Results and Conclusion:

It is expected that the findings will clarify the mediating role of depression in the relationship between chronic pain and cognitive functions. Understanding this relationship may contribute to the development of more comprehensive therapeutic interventions that address both the physical and psychological aspects of chronic pain.