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Published on: August 11, 2023
Medical Exercise Therapy for Treating Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review of Results from Randomized Controlled
H Lorås1, B Østerås1, T A Torstensen2,3
1Faculty of Health Education and Social Work, Division Physiotherapy, Sør-Trøndelag University College, Trondheim, Norway.
Background And Purpose:
The purpose of this narrative review is to present an overview and theoretical rationale of medical exercise therapy (MET) as a physiotherapeutic rehabilitation treatment for musculoskeletal pain conditions. Results from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted on MET are also presented.
Methods:
Computerized searches for any RCTs were conducted on the MET concept in the databases PubMed, Medline, Embase and ISI Web of science up to 2013.
Results:
Overall findings from five included MET RCTs are long-term (≥1 year) reductions in pain and improved physical and functional capabilities. These results are interpreted in the context of the biopsychosocial model, advancing the view of a dynamic interaction among physiologic, psychological and social factors that influence pain modulation.
Discussion:
MET is a biopsychosocial treatment that reduces pain and improves activities of daily living in patients with a musculoskeletal pain condition. Pain modulation is a key feature of MET, and an important area for further research is to elucidate the specific mechanisms behind the treatment effects.
