Evaluation of Cognitive Behavioral Interventions and Psychoeducation Implemented by Rehabilitation Specialists to Treat Fear-Avoidance Beliefs in Patients With Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review

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43 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objectives: To systematically locate, critically appraise, and synthesize the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapies (CBTs) and psychoeducation that can be implemented by rehabilitation specialists to treat fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with acute, subacute, and chronic low back pain (LBP). Data Sources: Electronic databases (CINAHL, PubMed, Psychology and Behavior Sciences Collection, SPORTDiscus, PsycINFO) were searched from inception to September 2017. Study Selection: Assessment of methodological quality was completed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. The Strength of Recommendation Taxonomy was used to evaluate the quality of evidence. Data Extraction: Study sample, subject demographics, CBT and/or psychoeducation intervention details, data collection time points, outcome assessments, statistical analysis, results, and conclusions were extracted from each study. In addition, effect sizes were calculated. Data Synthesis: Five high-quality studies (PEDro ≥6) were included. All included studies evaluated fear-avoidance beliefs. CBTs and psychoeducation strategies designed to target patient-specific fears demonstrated clinically meaningful results, while psychoeducation methodologies were not as effective. Conclusions: There is inconsistent, patient-oriented evidence (grade B) to support the use of CBTs and/or psychoeducation strategies by rehabilitation specialists to treat fear-avoidance beliefs. Patient-centered and personalized CBTs were most effective to treat these psychosocial factors in patients with LBP when compared with a control treatment.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2287-2298
Number of pages12
JournalArchives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Volume99
Issue number11
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 2018

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2017 American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine

Keywords

  • Cognitive therapy
  • Low back pain
  • Psychology
  • Rehabilitation
  • Therapeutics

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation

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