This study aims to explore in-depth the perceptions of physiotherapy among Indian patients with CLBP. Specifically, it investigates the beliefs, attitudes, and external influences that affect treatment-seeking behaviour.
Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 20 participants suffering from CLBP. Participants were recruited from the outpatient department of JSS Hospital, Mysuru, as well as from the community outreach programs of JSS Hospital in Mysuru, India. The interviews explored patients' experiences with low back pain, treatment-seeking behaviours, and views on physiotherapy. Thematic analysis was applied to understand patient perceptions of physiotherapy for CLBP.
The analysis revealed that individuals' perceptions of low back pain and its treatment are deeply influenced by cultural, social, and individual factors. The overarching theme, "Perceptions of Low Back Pain and Its Management," encompasses four interconnected sub-themes: 1. Acceptance of pain: Many participants normalized their pain, attributing it to aging, occupation, or daily activities, resulting in passive acceptance and a reluctance to seek treatment. 2. Importance of recommendations: Recommendations from healthcare providers, friends, and family played a pivotal role in prompting treatment-seeking behaviour. 3. Physiotherapy not the primary choice: Patients often favoured self-management strategies or sought advice from general practitioners, citing time constraints and limited knowledge about physiotherapy and conditions. 4. Seeking short-term treatment for flare-ups: Treatment was predominantly sought for acute flare-ups, with patients expecting rapid relief and attending only a few sessions. These sub-themes unequivocally demonstrate how individuals rationalize their pain, navigate treatment options, and prioritize short-term relief over long-term management, underscoring the interconnected nature of these aspects.
The findings reveal that Indian patients' perceptions of physiotherapy are shaped by ingrained beliefs, social influences, and a preference for quick symptom relief. These perceptions contribute to the delayed or limited use of physiotherapy for CLBP management among Indians.
The study highlights the need for patient education about the necessity of early intervention in treating chronic low back pain (CLBP) to prevent them from passively accepting the pain. Collaborative efforts to improve referral systems between healthcare providers could enhance access to and utilization of physiotherapy. Moreover, emphasizing the long-term benefits of physiotherapy over quick-fix solutions could improve patient adherence and prevent recurring pain among Indians with CLBP.
Low back pain
India
