Abstract
Background
Psychosocial (PS) factors have been described as the combination of the individual's cognitive, emotional and social status and they play an important role in the development and recovery from chronic low back pain (CLBP). The aims of the study where to explore/describe physiotherapists' personal beliefs and knowledge in relation to the assessment of PS factors in patients with CLBP in Italy.
Methods and results
A qualitative research design with a constructivist grounded theory approach was used for semi-structured interviews and data collection/analysis. A purposive sample of eight physiotherapists practicing in Italy and having experience with patients presenting chronic musculoskeletal problems were recruited from private clinics.
Three main categories were constructed:
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1)
Conceptions of the biopsychosocial model and its role in CLBP;
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2)
Evaluation and management of PS factors;
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3)
Barriers in the assessment and treatment.
The study revealed partial identification of these factors, limited understanding of the role they play in CLBP and lack of standardization in this area within the manipulative physiotherapy profession.
Conclusions
Physiotherapists showed basic knowledge of the biopsychosocial model and partially recognized social, emotional, cognitive and psychological factors and their contribution in patients' pain and disability. Physiotherapists highlighted the presence of barriers in the evaluation and treatment of people with CLBP, and some participants displayed lack of skills to overcome these barriers. Physiotherapists perceived limited education and training to successfully address PS factors in the management of patients with CLBP, indicating the need to incorporate the biopsychosocial model in the daily practice and improve the training and education of the psychosocial assessment and management.
Conflicts of interest: None
Source of funding: None
