Navigating complexities: clinicians’ experiences and systemic challenges in the implementation of evidence-based practice for chronic low back pain – a qualitative study

Abstract

Purpose Implementation of evidence-based practice (EBP) for chronic low back pain (CLBP) is poor. This study aimed to investigate the factors that influence exercise-based clinicians’ implementation of EBP for people with CLBP. Materials and Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 40 clinicians (20 physiotherapists and 20 accredited exercise physiologists). Interviews explored clinicians’ definition of EBP, understanding of EBP in CLBP management, barriers and enablers to EBP, and the impact of these factors on EBP implementation. Interviews were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Results A complex interplay among clinician factors, systemic factors, and patient interactions was identified. Clinicians encountered challenges stemming from their misconceptions about EBP, which influenced their perspective(s) on its implementation. Clinicians expressed the challenges of implementing EBP when navigating patient expectations and beliefs, experiencing external pressures from funders and business models, and the subsequent impacts on their well-being. Continuing professional development, support from community, and workplaces that prioritised EBP enhanced clinicians’ ability to make decisions that accommodate for the complexities of CLBP and better align with EBP. Conclusion A variety of factors impact exercise-based clinicians’ implementation of EBP. The interaction between these factors greatly influences clinicians’ ability to engage in and implement EBP in clinical practice.