July 2023 CME Activity #1: Investigation of the Relevant Factors in the Complexity of Chronic Low Back Pain Patients With a Physiotherapy Prescription: A Network Analysis Approach Comparing Chronic Pain–Free Individuals and Chronic Patients-Investigation of the Relevant Factors in the Complexity of Chronic Low Back Pain Patients With a Physiotherapy Prescription A Network Analysis Approach Comparing Chronic Pain

Investigation of the Relevant Factors in the Complexity of Chronic Low Back Pain Patients With a Physiotherapy Prescription A Network Analysis Approach Comparing Chronic Pain–Free Individuals and Chronic Patients

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Pdf Summary

Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a prevalent and debilitating condition that is associated with disability and loss of functionality. This study aimed to investigate the complex relationships between pain intensity, disability, and various factors in patients with CLBP compared to chronic pain-free individuals. <br /><br />A total of 119 patients with CLBP and 117 chronic pain-free individuals were assessed. Network analysis was used to explore the relationships between pain intensity, disability, functionality (physical, social, and psychological), age, body mass index (BMI), and education level. <br /><br />The analysis revealed that pain intensity and disability were independently related to CLBP and were not strongly connected to age, sex, or BMI. In chronic pain-free individuals, pain intensity and disability were directly and strongly connected. Psychosocial functioning was indirectly related to pain intensity and disability through the mediation of one's general health perception and perceived physical functionality. <br /><br />The study suggests that clinicians should pay more attention to perceived physical functionality and psychosocial factors in patients with CLBP. Pain intensity may not be the optimal target for rehabilitation, and a biopsychosocial approach is needed to fully understand and address CLBP. <br /><br />The findings warn against overemphasizing the direct impact of each potential contributor and highlight the need for a comprehensive assessment that takes into account the multiple factors involved in CLBP. These results can help inform treatment strategies for patients with CLBP, with a focus on improving physical functionality and addressing psychosocial factors.

Keywords

Chronic low back pain

CLBP

disability

functionality

pain intensity

psychosocial factors

age

body mass index

education level

rehabilitation