Analysis of psychological factors related to improvement of motion pain in patients with non-specific low back pain

Abstract

Background: To analyze the factors related to improvement in pain during motion (motion pain) in patients with non-specific low back pain (NLBP), in order to identify the focal points.

Study subjects and methods: The study was conducted in 73 patients who visited our clinic between June 2022 and January 2023, were diagnosed as having NLBP, and underwent exercise therapy. We examined the relationship between the magnitude of improvement in motion pain and the results of each psychological assessment.

Results: The magnitude of improvement in motion pain was found to be associated with the magnitude of improvement in the scores on catastrophic thinking, self-efficacy, and central sensitization.

Conclusions: Exercise therapy in patients with motion pain should take into account the patient's catastrophic thinking, self-efficacy, and central sensitization.