Abstract
Background
Although the aetiology of chronic low back pain (CLBP) is unknown, it is suggested that several subgroups among CLBP-patients might be identified who are likely to benefit from different interventions. The results of these interventions might be improved by matching interventions to patient characteristics.
Purpose
The purpose of this longitudinal study is to determine which subgroup of CLBP-patients benefits most from the short, intensive pain management program of RealHealth_NL.
Methods
A prospective cohort of 524 selected consecutive CLBP-patients was followed. Potential predictive indicators included demographic characteristics, functional disability, experienced pain and cognitive behavioural factors as measured at pre-treatment assessment. The outcome is defined as one year improvement in functional disability. A successful outcome is a value as seen in healthy populations. The two-week residential program is in line with recommendations in international guidelines, based on cognitive behavioural principles and delivered in collaboration with orthopedic spine surgeons.
Results
Multivariate logistic regression revealed pre-treatment being employed (OR 3.609 [95%CI 1.795–7.256]), and functional disability (OR 0.943 [95%CI 0.921–0.965]) as significant predictive factors of a successful outcome in functional disability at one year follow-up.
Conclusion
The results imply that CLBP-patients, who are employed, and less disabled at pre-treatment assessment, who participated in the RealHealth_NL program, are consistently associated with one year follow-up improvement of functional disability toward normal values. A small set of indicators is more easily identified and addressed and CLBP-patients who are more likely to benefit from the program could be given a higher entry priority.
Conflict of Interest: J O'Dowd owns shares in RealHealth_NL; Research Development & Education independent research organisation; Sint Maartenskliniek health care provider and referral organisation
Source of funding: None
This abstract has not been previously published in whole or substantial part nor has it been presented previously at a national meeting.
