Abstract
BackgroundChronic Low Back Pain is a complex syndrome with multifactorial bio-psycho-social etiology and interdependences. Thereby, physical activity seems to play an essential role regarding the prevention and rehabilitation of LBP. In consequence, physical activity and exercise therapy is an integral part of musculoskeletal rehabilitation in LBP. However, adherence to self-directed exercise and implementing a health-enhancing physical activity in daily routine after rehabilitation is a common problem for patients and only a few patients integrate health-enhancing physical activity and/or sport activities in their lifestyle. The present paper describes a comprehensive multilevel approach combining face-to-face intervention, telephone and internet aftercare (Movement Coaching). Aim of the trial presented in this study protocol is to evaluate effectiveness of Movement Coaching compared to a control intervention.Methods/DesignThe study is a prospective, single-blinded, monocenter randomized controlled trial (RCT) with three measuring points: T1 = start of inpatient rehabilitation; T2 = six months follow-up; T3 = twelve months follow-up. In total, 412 patients were recruited. The intervention involves small-group face-to-face contact during inpatient rehabilitation (two times, week 2 & 3) and telephone aftercare (week 8 & week 12 after rehabilitation) as well as internet-based aftercare (web 2.0 platform; available until six months after rehabilitation). Primary outcome is physical activity, assessed by GPAQ questionnaire. The final data collection is expected by April 2015.DiscussionDue to the burden of physical inactivity, there is a need to develop, evaluate and disseminate approaches that are effective in promoting physical activity and especially promoting the maintenance of physical activity in relevant target groups. Considering the high prevalence and socioeconomic impact of low back pain and its multifactorial etiology, low back pain patients seem to be a relevant target group for physical activity promotion. A multilevel approach to bridge the interface of (inpatient) rehabilitation and self-directed physical activity will help to target group-specific PA promotion.Trial registrationGerman Clinical Trials Register (DRKS)-ID: DRKS00004878.
Highlights
Chronic Low Back Pain is a complex syndrome with multifactorial bio-psycho-social etiology and interdependences
Due to the burden of physical inactivity, there is a need to develop, evaluate and disseminate approaches that are effective in promoting physical activity and especially promoting the maintenance of physical activity in relevant target groups
Does Movement Coaching lead to a higher level of physical activity (PA) in chronic Low Back Pain (LBP) patients compared to a control group?
Summary
Low levels of PA in the population require treatment strategies in PA promotion. there is a need to develop, evaluate and disseminate approaches that are effective in promoting PA and especially promoting the maintenance of PA. From a Public Health perspective, it is of utmost importance to reach a relevant target group for PA promotion. The patients’ utilization of the interactive web 2.0 platform as well as target group specific development of the web content seems to be challenging. As far as the authors know, the combination of face-to-face, telephone and internet intervention is new and user experiences of different stakeholders (e.g., patients, providers) can be used in order to improve each approach and/or improve the detailed concept of the comprehensive approach to reach the target group. CLBP patients seem to be a relevant target group for PA promotion. IF contributed to the idea of the study and critically revised all versions of the manuscript. Both authors read and approved the final manuscript
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