How do people with chronic low back pain perceive specific and general exercise? A mixed methods survey
A Natoli1, M D Jones1,2, V Long1
1School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine & Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
Pain Practice : the Official Journal of World Institute of Pain
|February 21, 2024
Summary
People with chronic low back pain (CLBP) find specific exercises more beneficial than general ones. These exercises, even without explanation, convey meaning about their intended purpose for CLBP management.
Area of Science:
- Pain Management
- Exercise Science
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Chronic low back pain (CLBP) management often involves targeted trunk exercises.
- The implied beliefs associated with these exercises, independent of explicit narratives, are not well understood.
- Exploring patient perceptions of exercise rationale is crucial for effective CLBP treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how individuals with CLBP perceive specific and general exercises.
- To understand the beliefs patients form about exercise rationale without accompanying biomedical explanations.
- To explore the implications of these beliefs on exercise adherence and effectiveness in CLBP.
Main Methods:
- An anonymous online survey was employed to gather data.
- Mixed methods, including Likert scales and open-ended questions, were used for comprehensive analysis.
- Beliefs about individual exercises were categorized, and qualitative themes were identified.
Main Results:
- Individuals with CLBP favored specific exercises over general ones.
- Key themes emerged regarding strengthening, technique, and avoidance of certain movements (flexion, external load).
- Beliefs were often centered on spinal/pelvic stability and exercise achievability.
Conclusions:
- Specific exercises are perceived as more beneficial for CLBP than general exercises, even without explicit narratives.
- The choice and perception of exercises can imply underlying beliefs about pain mechanisms and treatment goals.
- Practitioners must consider patient perceptions and communicate exercise intent mindfully for optimal CLBP care.
