A new study suggests that a combination of physiotherapy alongside psychological interventions can be effective for improving physical function and pain intensity — findings that can help improve the clarity of guideline recommendations to better support patients and clinicians in treatment decision making.

Adults with chronic low back pain (lasting for more than 12 weeks) not only experience physical disability but can also suffer psychological distress in the form of anxiety, depression and fear avoidance (avoiding movement for fear of pain).

Clinical guidelines therefore consistently recommend a combination of exercise and psychosocial therapies for managing chronic low back pain. But not much is known about the different types of psychological therapies available and their effectiveness, leaving doctors and patients often unclear about the best choice of treatment.

To address this uncertainty, researchers set out to investigate the comparative effectiveness and safety of common psychological interventions on physical function and pain intensity in adults with chronic low back pain.

Overall, the researchers found that compared with physiotherapy care alone, physiotherapy delivered with psychological interventions were more effective for improving physical function and pain intensity.

Not ready for psychological intervention for your back pain? Chiropractors are experts in treating low back pain with hands on care, structured exercise, pain education, and lifestyle advice.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com