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Psychological factors in low back pain
1Rehabilitation Research Centre, Social Insurance Institution, Turku, Finland.
Annals of Clinical Research
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Low back pain (LBP) is common, but its causes and treatments are not fully understood. While psychological factors are often considered, recent research suggests their association with LBP may be weaker than previously believed.
Area of Science:
- Pain Medicine
- Psychiatry
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition with poorly understood etiology, natural history, and treatment.
- Historically, LBP was often categorized as psychogenic (functional) versus organic, influencing treatment predictions.
- The dichotomy of psychogenic versus organic LBP is now considered less meaningful.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolving understanding of psychological factors in low back pain.
- To examine the relationship between psychiatric disturbances and LBP.
- To explore potential therapeutic approaches for LBP patients with psychological comorbidities.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of early and recent studies on LBP and psychological factors.
- Analysis of population studies investigating the association between LBP and psychological traits.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes for psychotherapy in LBP patients.
Main Results:
- Earlier views linked psychogenic LBP to conversion hysteria and psychoses; current research points to neuroses and neurotic traits as more common.
- Population studies suggest the association between psychological factors and LBP may be weaker than previously assumed.
- Individuals with LBP may exhibit higher rates of aggression issues, ego function weaknesses, and interpersonal/sexual problems.
Conclusions:
- The role and prevalence of psychological factors in LBP remain debated.
- While specific psychotherapies for LBP with mental health issues are not clearly defined, learning therapy and multidisciplinary programs show promise.