Beyond the Physical: A Holistic Approach to Managing Chronic Low Back Pain
Healthcare Professionals Corner:
New insights suggest that effective care for people with chronic mechanical low back pain (MLBP) goes beyond just treating physical symptoms. Traditional approaches focus mainly on structural issues, but this study highlights the importance of also assessing quality of life, physical activity, and disability.
Over the past decade, research has shown that pain is influenced by both physical and psychosocial factors. Many people with MLBP experience reduced activity levels, poorer quality of life, and daily limitations, all of which contribute to their overall experience of pain and disability. However, capturing these aspects can be challenging for clinicians, as standardized measures for these outcomes vary widely.
The study suggests that when clinicians consider not only the intensity of pain but also its impact on everyday life, they’re better equipped to address the full scope of a patient’s condition. For example, higher pain levels often correlate with reduced physical activity and quality of life. Therefore, managing MLBP with a broader approach—assessing quality of life, physical activity, and functional ability—could provide more comprehensive and effective care.
Incorporating this holistic view into patient management could offer a new standard for treating MLBP, allowing healthcare providers to support patients in leading more active, fulfilling lives despite their condition.
Source:
Ekediegwu, E. C., Onwukike, C. V., & Onyeso, O. K. (2024). Pain intensity, physical activity, quality of life, and disability in patients with mechanical low back pain: a cross-sectional study. Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy, 29(1), 1.