Group-based task-oriented exercises aimed at managing kinesiophobia improved disability in chronic low back pain
M Monticone1, E Ambrosini1,2, B Rocca1
1Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Unit, Scientific Institute of Lissone, Institute of Care and Research, Salvatore Maugeri Foundation IRCCS, Lissone, Italy.
European Journal of Pain (London, England)
|July 23, 2015
Summary
A group-based cognitive behavioural rehabilitation program significantly reduced disability and kinesiophobia in chronic low back pain (CLBP) patients. These positive effects on pain and quality of life were sustained for at least two years.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Clinical Psychology
- Pain Management
Background:
- Doubts persist regarding the clinical impact and long-term effectiveness of group-based multidisciplinary cognitive behavioural rehabilitation for chronic low back pain (CLBP).
- This study addresses the need for evidence on the efficacy of such programs in improving patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of a group-based multidisciplinary cognitive behavioural rehabilitation program on disability, kinesiophobia, catastrophizing, pain, and quality of life in CLBP patients.
- To compare the program's effectiveness against traditional exercises in a randomized controlled trial.
Main Methods:
- A 5-week group-based program integrating task-oriented exercises with cognitive behavioural therapy for kinesiophobia was compared to traditional exercises in 150 CLBP patients.
- Outcomes including disability (Oswestry Disability Index), kinesiophobia (Tampa Scale), pain catastrophizing, pain intensity, and quality of life were assessed at baseline, post-treatment, and at 12 and 24 months follow-up.
- Linear mixed models were used to analyze repeated measures for each outcome.
Main Results:
- The multidisciplinary cognitive behavioural program demonstrated significant superiority over traditional exercises.
- Significant improvements favoring the experimental group were observed in disability, kinesiophobia, pain catastrophizing, pain intensity, and quality of life.
- These treatment gains were maintained at both 12 and 24-month follow-ups.
Conclusions:
- A group-based multidisciplinary cognitive behavioural rehabilitation program is more effective than traditional exercises for CLBP.
- The program significantly reduces disability, kinesiophobia, and catastrophizing, while enhancing quality of life.
- The observed benefits are long-lasting, persisting for at least two years post-intervention.
