A back school in The Netherlands: evaluating the results

The use of an education program for patients with chronic low back pain (Back School) has been investigated. The effect evaluation is based on a pretest-post-test-control group design, including a follow-up after 8 weeks. The Maastricht Back School is based on the theory that pain is also maintained by emotional, cognitive and environmental factors. Information and training are given on these and physical factors. The purpose of the course is to teach patients to manage their own pain problem. The results suggest that the Back School program for patients with chronic low back pain can have a positive effect.