An e-learning program improves low back pain beliefs of physiotherapists: a randomised trial
Daniela Silva Magalhães1, James H McAuley2, Chris G Maher3
1Department of Physical Therapy, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Journal of Physiotherapy
|December 15, 2024
Summary
An e-learning program effectively improved physiotherapists' beliefs regarding low back pain management, aligning them with current clinical guidelines. This intervention demonstrated positive impacts on attitudes and reduced unnecessary imaging beliefs.
Area of Science:
- Physiotherapy
- Evidence-Based Practice
- Digital Health Education
Background:
- Low back pain management requires adherence to current clinical guidelines.
- Physiotherapists' beliefs can influence patient care and treatment outcomes.
- E-learning offers a flexible platform for professional development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of an e-learning program in modifying physiotherapists' beliefs about low back pain management.
- To promote beliefs aligned with current evidence-based clinical guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Randomised controlled trial with 106 physiotherapists.
- Experimental group received a 6-week, 15-hour e-learning program on low back pain management.
- Control group continued usual activities; outcomes assessed at baseline and 6 weeks.
Main Results:
- High adherence (94%) to the e-learning program was observed.
- Significant improvements in beliefs about low back pain management (MBBQ score: MD 8 points).
- Enhanced attitudes towards low back pain (Back-PAQ score: MD 3.1 points) and reduced endorsement of unnecessary imaging.
Conclusions:
- An e-learning program based on clinical guidelines effectively improved physiotherapists' beliefs regarding low back pain.
- The intervention promoted attitudes consistent with current evidence-based practice.
- Digital education can be a valuable tool for updating clinical beliefs and practices.
