Perceptions of Chronic Low Back Pain and Physiotherapy in India: A Qualitative Study

Low back pain (LBP) is a leading cause of disability, significantly affecting quality of life and imposing a substantial economic burden in India. Despite its high prevalence, utilisation of rehabilitation services remains low. In a country characterised by socio-cultural diversity, it's important to understand how individuals perceive chronic low back pain (CLBP) and the role of physiotherapy interventions. This study aims to explore in-depth the perceptions of CLBP and physiotherapy among individuals with CLBP in India.

A qualitative approach was used, involving semi-structured interviews with 20 participants who had CLBP. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis was employed to explore the lived experiences and perceptions of physiotherapy among people with CLBP.

Participants with CLBP based their management decisions on cultural, social, and personal influences. The major theme, physiotherapy is not a priority for the management of CLBP in India, was driven by four interconnected sub-themes: passive acceptance of pain, the influence of recommendations, perceived limitations of physiotherapy, and a focus on treatment for short-term management of flare-ups but not for long-term management or prevention. These themes illustrate how patients rationalise their pain and navigate available treatments.

Perceptions of physiotherapy among participants with CLBP in India were shaped by ingrained beliefs, social influences, and a preference for quick symptom relief over long-term management. These perceptions may contribute to the delayed or limited use of physiotherapy for CLBP management among Indians.