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Biomechanical Changes Related to Low Back Pain: An Innovative Tool for Movement Pattern Assessment and Treatment Evaluation in Rehabilitation
Published on: December 13, 2024
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Systematic review and meta-analysis on the association between chronic low back pain and cognitive function
Ellen C H Pereira Nery1, Nelson P Rocha2, Vitor T Cruz3
1Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal.
Pain Practice : the Official Journal of World Institute of Pain
|December 12, 2022
Summary
Individuals with chronic low back pain (LBP) show impaired cognitive function, including problem-solving and memory. Further research is needed to understand the links between LBP, cognitive changes, and psychological factors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Idiopathic chronic low back pain (LBP) is a prevalent condition with significant impact on quality of life.
- The relationship between LBP and cognitive function remains incompletely understood, necessitating further investigation.
Approach:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to synthesize existing evidence.
- Eleven studies were included, with four meta-analyses performed to assess cognitive function in LBP populations.
Key Points:
- Low to very low-quality evidence indicates impaired cognitive functions in individuals with LBP compared to controls.
- Specific deficits were observed in problem-solving, information processing speed, working memory, and delayed memory.
- Associations between LBP intensity, psychological factors (catastrophizing, fear of movement), and cognitive function were inconclusive.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive aspects should be integrated into the rehabilitation strategies for LBP patients.
- Future research should explore the potential link between LBP and dementia risk.
- Investigating the impact of targeting cognitive function on LBP treatment outcomes is warranted.
