HOW DO PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN PERCEIVE SPECIFIC AND GENERAL EXERCISE?

Abstract

INTRODUCTION & AIMS Exercise prescriptions for chronic low back pain (CLBP) often utilize reductionistic, trunk-focused exercise aimed at addressing proposed pain mechanisms. It is unknown if the use of these trunk focussed exercises imply beliefs to people with CLBP about the rationale for their use (e.g., aetiology), even without concurrent biomedical narratives. This study aimed to explore people’s perceptions of specific and general exercise without an accompanying narrative when experiencing CLBP. METHODS An anonymous online survey was distributed. Mixed methods were utilised for analysis. Six-point Likert scales categorised people’s beliefs about individual exercises. Open-ended questions were used to gather further beliefs which were then coded into themes. RESULTS 109 people with CLBP perceived specific exercise as more beneficial than general exercise. Eight themes and five sub-themes were defined. A high volume of positive beliefs were centred around strengthening the low back and abdominal musculature, emphasising the importance of correct technique. Negative beliefs were held against spinal flexion and external load. Both positive and negative beliefs were underpinned by spinal/pelvic stability being important as well as certain exercises being achievable or not. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated that people with CLBP consider specific exercises to be more beneficial than general exercises for CLBP. Specific exercises irrespective of an accompanying narrative can imply meaning about the intent of an exercise. Understanding this requires practitioners to be mindful when prescribing and communicating exercise.