Introduction: Numerous studies have reported the usefulness of exercise and increases in fitness in the management of Lower Back Pain (LBP). Additionally, the importance of psychosocial factors in both the development and chronicity of LBP have been reported. This study was designed to work within the local community and improve levels of health and awareness regarding LBP. More specifically an evaluation of how an educational package may influence fitness and exercise levels, disability and beliefs about LBP was undertaken.

Methods: 195 particpants were recruited from the community. Testing is conducted at 0, 12 and 24 months. Each participant completes a battery of tests including an aerobic fitness test and self-report questionnaires measuring disability (Low Back Outcome Score: LBOS), Acute pain (visual analogue scale), LBP history (time off work), and back pain beliefs (Back Beliefs Questionnaire: BBQ). participants receive a one to one educational intervention supported by educational literature (Back Book, exercise sheet and diary).

Results: BBQ scores improved significantly ( p = .000) between 0 and 12 months. This difference remained when controlling for gender, LBP history and acute pain level. No significant differences were found in LBOS scores and fitness levels. Significant differences existed between level of pain and LBOS scores, with higher pain resulting in lower LBOS values ( p = .000). A non-significant trend was observed between BBQ scores and higher pain levels, with higher pain resulting in smaller BBQ improvements.

Conclusions: Participants taking part in this research had significantly more positive beliefs about the inevitability of their future in relation to LBP after receiving an educational intervention. Anecdotal evidence from participants suggests the educational package was of benefit due to an improvement in their level of back care understanding. The study was unable to elicit any positive changes in fitness level or disability, although baseline fitness levels were above average, and disability scores, low.

Introduction: A Health Action Zone project has been designed to assess the effect of a public education programme to improve the community awareness of the correct approach to low back pain. As part of this project a preliminary survey of the public has been undertaken.

Methods: 195 members of the public were surveyed using by a number of members of the team using a pro-forma. Interview sites were selected to provide a cross section of the population of the community. Demographic details were collected together with data related to low back pain prevalence and attitudes to self management.

Discussion: The initial survey shows that people take too much rest and do too little exercise. The HAZ projects, which have been in existence for three years, have had small penetrance into the community. The Teesside Back Pain Partnership so far has focussed on individual education as part of other strategies. A radio, bus posters, leaf ets and posters campaign aimed at changing beliefs on back pain management. the pattern of behaviour is planned. The extremely low level of awareness of the TBPP will provide an opportunity to measure how much of any change may be attributed to this campaign.