The Role of Psychologically Informed Physical Therapy for Musculoskeletal Pain

Abstract

Psychologically informed physical therapy (PIPT) addresses physical and psychosocial factors, by integrating cognitive-behavioral techniques into conventional physical therapy. This review presents findings from randomized controlled trials to understand the benefits of PIPT and training needed to deliver PIPT programs. Pain coping strategies and exercise were effective for improving physical function in the short term for patients with knee pain; however, long-term clinical benefit depends on the comparison group. Conflicting findings were found in patients with neck pain. However, evidence supports the effectiveness of PIPT for patients with low back pain, particularly those with chronic pain. PIPT, through one-on-one, group, and telephone formats, can achieve positive improvement in clinical outcomes. Graded activity, goal setting, and cognitive-restructuring are common components. Stratifying patients and applying targeted PIPT may improve treatment effectiveness. Future research should focus on replicating PIPT in clinical practice and understanding the cost-effectiveness of different delivery platforms.