Self-management of chronic low back pain: An exploration of the impact of a patient-centered website

Abstract

Objective This paper examines from a qualitative approach the role of a patient-centered website – named “Oneself” – on patients’ chronic low back pain self-management attitudes and behaviors in the Italian part of Switzerland. Methods In-depth interviews have been conducted with a purposive and convenient sample of 18 chronic low back pain sufferers who had used Oneself during 6 months. Data collection and analysis were driven by grounded theory. Results Reported positive effects of the use of Oneself on self-management attitudes and behaviors include self-comprehension, improvement of argumentative abilities, orientation, development of self-confidence and maintenance of a high level of attention. In some cases, participants affirm to have experienced negative effects such as confusion and discouragement. The individual's previous awareness of cLBP and level of self-management plays a main role in the way people use the website and in its impact. Based on this criterium, a typology of four patterns of use is drawn. Conclusion Patient-centered websites are useful for enhancing self-management of chronic low back pain. However, individuals take advantage of this means differently, based on their stage of advancement in the self-management process. Practice implications Information and supports provided online should be tailored according to people's stage of advancement.