Perception Amongst Physiotherapists Regarding the Psycho-Social Risk Factors and the Influence in Chronic Low Back Pain- A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Aim: To determine the current knowledge and awareness of physiotherapists in India regarding psychosocial factors for managing patients with low back pain. Background: Patients with low back pain are increasing globally. Physical dysfunction and psychosocial factors (often reported as yellow flags) such as stress, anxiety, and fear of movement, play a role in the perpetuation of low back pain. What is not known is the extent to which the yellow flags are screened for and treatment adjusted accordingly by Physiotherapists practicing in India. Design: Semi-structured interviews gathered data from of six physiotherapists. The interviews were conducted online to adhere to COVID restrictions. The data was transcribed and analyzed using thematic analysis. Result: The main findings were that the physiotherapists in India had a limited knowledge regarding psychosocial factors for management of low back pain. Patient were not supportive of adding the yellow flag screening into the routine treatments as patient were not aware of such screening tools Additionally, the physical elements of low back pain had more focus during the treatment rather than psychosocial, by the therapists and the higher authorities. Also, the physiotherapists noted that the high number of patients that patient were expected to treat daily left them with limited time in altering protocols for treatment. Conclusion: There appears to be a lack of information and education delivered to the physiotherapists in India regarding psychosocial factors for managing low back pain. Access to screening protocols would enable them to adjust treatments if permitted by the protocols that patient follow. The addition of these factors in the education and treatment protocols could address these important factors when managing patients with low back pain in India.