Ambulation, activity level, and pain. Outcomes of a program for spinal pain

The purpose of this study was to investigate changes in ambulation distance, activity level, medical care sought, and perceived pain in 49 patients with chronic spinal pain who completed an inpatient rehabilitation program. Therapy included patient education, reduction in pain medications, increased quotas for activity and ambulation, and reinforcement of nonpain behaviors. Change was measured by a 12-minute walk, an activity check list, and pain and activity self-ratings. Tests were administered at admission and discharge and at one, three, and six months after discharge. Patients improved significantly in walking distance, frequency of both exercises and physical conditioning activities performed, and pain self-rating. Medical care sought decreased. Activity self-rating on a 10-point scale was unchanged. This program had a positive effect on a number of factors and warrants consideration for patients with chronic spinal pain.