Self-management programs for chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Psychometric Properties of the Chinese Version of the Arthritis Self-Care Behaviors Scale

BACKGROUND

In Chinese intervention studies, the lack of specific self-care scales based on the functional characteristics of Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients has caused patients and researchers to spend a great deal of time completing multiple related scales during the research work. Therefore, the arthritis Self-Care Behaviors Scale (SCBS) was developed to evaluate the self-care behavior of patients with arthritis.

OBJECTIVE

The objectives of this study were to translate the SCBS into Chinese and test its psychometric properties in Chinese patients with RA.

METHODS

The SCBS (English version) was translated to Chinese using Brislin's forward and backward translation method. A total of 414 adults with RA completed the Chinese version of the SCBS. Item analysis, content validity, construct validity, internal consistency reliability, and test-retest reliability were used to test its psychometric properties.

RESULTS

Item analysis showed that the SCBS (Chinese version) has good discrimination and consistency. The Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.873 of the content validity index (CVI). Exploratory factor analysis demonstrated a five-factor solution, which is different from the traditional one. The results of the five common factor models indicated that the revised Chinese version of SCBS had good construct validity. The test-retest coefficient was 0.82, supporting adequate reliability.

CONCLUSION

The Chinese version of the SCBS is a reliable and valid instrument to evaluate RA patients' self-care behavior in China. However, further research into different economic levels, education levels, and age groups would broaden the scope of the Chinese version of the SCBS.

Effectiveness of patient education on the quality of life of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has a considerable negative impact on quality of life (QoL) and represents a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Although patient education (PE) programs are advocated as an integral component of comprehensive RA management, the magnitude and sustainability of their QoL benefits remain unclear. This meta-analysis seeks to assess the efficacy of PE interventions in enhancing QoL among RA patients.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of studies from 1985 to 2022 was conducted, incorporating 66 publications (59 randomized controlled trials and 7 non-randomized controlled trials) with a total of 9622 participants. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria, focusing on adults diagnosed with RA who participated in PE interventions compared to conventional or no interventions. Data were analyzed using fixed-effect and random-effects models, depending on the heterogeneity among studies. Results were reported separately for the initial follow-up and for the final follow-up.

FINDINGS

PE interventions demonstrated a positive impact on QoL. Following the intervention, there is a significant improvement in QoL (SMD = 0·13, 95% CI: 0·08 to 0·17, I² = 43%), with the highest efficacy observed at 7-12 weeks. Modern-era publications and randomized controlled trials offer more consistent results. Subgroups with higher female representation (>85%) and combined intervention approaches show more substantial effects. In the final assessments, QoL improvements are noteworthy, especially within the 0-6 weeks post-intervention period (SMD = 0·39, 95% CI: 0·13 to 0·66, I² = 84%). Younger adults (≤50 years) benefit the most, while longer program durations (>52 weeks) exhibit significant but varied effects.

INTERPRETATION

This meta-analysis underscores the positive effect of PE interventions on QoL among RA patients, highlighting the importance of tailored approaches considering various contextual factors. Standardizing intervention protocols and optimizing delivery methods are recommended to enhance the sustained impact of PE programs in RA management.

The Role of Awareness of Age-Related Change in the Longitudinal Association between Pain and Physical Activity

We examined how physical pain impacts the developmental construct of Awareness of Age-Related Change (AARC-gains and AARC-losses) and, in turn, how AARC mediates and moderates the association between pain and subsequent physical activity. We used longitudinal data from 434 participants of the UK PROTECT Study (mean age = 65.5 years; SD = 6.94 years). We found that pain in 2019 predicted higher AARC-losses (β = .07; p = .036) and less physical activity (β = -.13; p-value = .001) in 2020. Additionally, we found that AARC-losses partially mediated, but did not moderate, the association of pain in 2019 and physical activity in 2020. AARC-losses may explain physical inactivity in middle-aged and older adults experiencing pain. Incorporating developmental constructs such as AARC into theories and empirical studies on pain and pain management may be necessary to more fully capture people's responses to pain.

Factors associated with self-management in older adults with multiple chronic conditions: a qualitative study

Background and purpose

Recognizing the importance of self-management in older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCCs) is crucial for their quality of life. This qualitative study explored the factors linked to self-management among older adults with MCCs.

Materials and methods

The present study was conducted in three stages: an integrated review, qualitative interviews, and Delphi. The search used electronic databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Magiran, SID, and Iranmedex. The results of 33 studies that met the inclusion criteria were analyzed using conventional content analysis. A data matrix was formed; and purposeful sampling was conducted among older adults with MCCs, family caregivers, and specialists. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Data analysis of 29 interviews was conducted simultaneously with data collection using oriented qualitative content analysis and the Elo and Kyngäs approach. Three rounds of Delphi were conducted via email correspondence with a group of 30 experts to develop and validate the proposed variables.

Results

The factors that influence self-management can be categorized into various categories. Biological factors, cognitive factors, co-morbidities, socio-economic factors, health-related behaviors, mental health, interactions with healthcare teams, Family relationships, medical facility resources, employee empowerment, health policy development, and cultural influences.

Conclusion

Self-management in older Iranian adults with MCCs is a complex and multidimensional phenomenon. By identifying the relevant factors, it is possible to design operational plans that promote self-management among the older adult population and are tailored to fit the specific needs of Iranian society.

Can pain be self-managed? Pain change in vulnerable participants to a health education programme

Chronic pain exerts a significant impact on the quality of life, giving rise to both physical and psycho-social vulnerabilities. It not only leads to direct costs associated with treatments, but also results in indirect costs due to the reduced productivity of affected individuals. Chronic conditions can be improved by reducing modifiable risk factors. Various educational programs, including the Chronic Disease Self-Management Programme (CDSMP), have demonstrated the advantages of enhancing patient empowerment and health literacy. Nevertheless, their efficacy in addressing pain symptoms has received limited attention, especially concerning vulnerable populations. This research aims to assess the effectiveness of the CDSMP in alleviating pain among socio-economically vulnerable participants with chronic conditions. By accounting for a wide range of variables, and using data from the EFFICHRONIC project (EU health programme), we investigated the changes in pain levels after the intervention, among 1070 participants from five European countries. Our analyses revealed a significant reduction in pain following the intervention. This finding supports the notion that training programs can effectively ameliorate pain and alleviate its impact on the quality of life, particularly in vulnerable populations. Younger participants, as well as those with higher education levels and individuals experiencing higher levels of pain at baseline, were more likely to experience a reduction in their pain levels. These findings underscore the importance of recognising the social determinants of health. The study was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (ISRCTN70517103).

Acceptance and commitment therapy for patients with chronic pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis on psychological outcomes and quality of life

OBJECTIVES

To assess the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) for patients with chronic pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The research conducted a systematic search of the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) databases following the PRISMA guidelines. The retrieval time limit was from the establishment of the database to October 2023. A meta-analysis was carried out for the randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that meet the inclusion and exclusion criteria by using RevMan 5.3.

RESULTS

Twenty-one RCTs were included. At post-treatment, a significant medium effect size (ES) was found in measuring pain interference, functional impairment, pain acceptance, psychological inflexibility, and depression; Pain intensity, anxiety, and quality of life (QOL) had a small ES. At three months post-treatment, a large ES was found in measuring functional impairment, and a medium ES was found in the other indicators.

CONCLUSION

The researchers provided evidence for the effectiveness of ACT as an intervention for patients with chronic pain, which can be applied by clinicians or nurses in practice. Future research should explore the applicability of ACT to different pain conditions and modalities.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Post-treatment data highlight the efficacy of ACT in moderating pain-related outcomes. Clinical nurses are encouraged to incorporate ACT into routine patient education and interventions, including promoting pain acceptance, promoting mindfulness practices, and using cognitive stress reduction techniques. Standardized follow-up after an ACT intervention for patients with chronic pain is critical, including regular assessment, feedback, and realignment of treatment strategies. Overall, ACT became an important tool for nurses to improve the lives of patients with chronic pain.

The effect of self-management techniques on relevant outcomes in chronic low back pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Among many treatment approaches for chronic low back pain (CLBP), self-management techniques are becoming increasingly important. The aim of this paper was to (a) provide an overview of existing digital self-help interventions for CLBP and (b) examine the effect of these interventions in reducing pain intensity, pain catastrophizing and pain disability.

DATABASES AND DATA TREATMENT

Following the PRISMA guideline, a systematic literature search was conducted in the MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychInfo, CINAHL and Cochrane databases. We included randomized controlled trials from the last 10 years that examined the impact of digital self-management interventions on at least one of the three outcomes in adult patients with CLBP (duration ≥3 months). The meta-analysis was based on random-effects models. Standardized tools were used to assess the risk of bias (RoB) for each study and the quality of evidence for each outcome.

RESULTS

We included 12 studies (n = 1545). A small but robust and statistically significant pooled effect was found on pain intensity (g = 0.24; 95% CI [0.09, 0.40], k = 12) and pain disability (g = 0.43; 95% CI [0.27, 0.59], k = 11). The effect on pain catastrophizing was not significant (g = 0.38; 95% CI [-0.31, 1.06], k = 4). The overall effect size including all three outcomes was g = 0.33 (95% CI [0.21, 0.44], k = 27). The RoB of the included studies was mixed. The quality of evidence was moderate or high.

CONCLUSION

In summary, we were able to substantiate recent evidence that digital self-management interventions are effective in the treatment of CLBP. Given the heterogeneity of interventions, further research should aim to investigate which patients benefit most from which approach.

SIGNIFICANCE

This meta-analysis examines the effect of digital self-management techniques in patients with CLBP. The results add to the evidence that digital interventions can help patients reduce their pain intensity and disability. A minority of studies point towards the possibility that digital interventions can reduce pain catastrophizing. Future research should further explore which patients benefit most from these kinds of interventions.

An Umbrella Review of Self-Management Interventions for Health Conditions With Symptom Overlap With Traumatic Brain Injury

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize evidence for the effectiveness of self-management interventions for chronic health conditions that have symptom overlap with traumatic brain injury (TBI) in order to extract recommendations for self-management intervention in persons with TBI.

DESIGN

An umbrella review of existing systematic reviews and/or meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials or nonrandomized studies targeting self-management of chronic conditions and specific outcomes relevant to persons with TBI.

METHOD

A comprehensive literature search of 5 databases was conducted using PRISMA guidelines. Two independent reviewers conducted screening and data extraction using the Covidence web-based review platform. Quality assessment was conducted using criteria adapted from the Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews-2 (AMSTAR-2).

RESULTS

A total of 26 reviews met the inclusion criteria, covering a range of chronic conditions and a range of outcomes. Seven reviews were of moderate or high quality and focused on self-management in persons with stroke, chronic pain, and psychiatric disorders with psychotic features. Self-management interventions were found to have positive effects on quality of life, self-efficacy, hope, reduction of disability, pain, relapse and rehospitalization rates, psychiatric symptoms, and occupational and social functioning.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings are encouraging with regard to the effectiveness of self-management interventions in patients with symptoms similar to those of TBI. However, reviews did not address adaptation of self-management interventions for those with cognitive deficits or for populations with greater vulnerabilities, such as low education and older adults. Adaptations for TBI and its intersection with these special groups may be needed.

Linking patient reported shoulder outcomes to the international classification of functioning, disability and health

PURPOSE

To link the items from shoulder-specific Patient Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains and categories, and to determine if the items fit into the ICF framework.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Brazilian versions of the Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Simple Shoulder Test (SST) and Western Ontario Rotator Cuff Index (WORC) were linked to the ICF by two researchers independently. Agreement between raters was determined by calculating the Kappa Index.

RESULTS

Fifty-eight items from the PROMs were linked to eight domains and 27 categories of ICF. The PROMs covered components of body functions, activities, and participation. Components of body structure and environmental factors were not covered by any of the PROMs. ​There was substantial agreement between raters when linking the OSS (Kappa index = 0.66), SPADI (Kappa index = 0.92), SST (Kappa index = 0.72) and WORC (Kappa index = 0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

WORC and SST were the PROMs that covered the highest number of ICF domains (seven and six, respectively). However, SST is short and may be less time consuming in a clinical assessment. Clinicians can benefit from this study to decide which shoulder-specific PROM may be more adequate according to the clinical demand.Implications For RehabilitationWestern Ontario Rotator Cuff Index was the shoulder-specific Patient Reported Outcome Measure (PROM) that best showed a broader view of functionality through the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) domains that can influence shoulder pain and disability.Simple Shoulder Test seems to be the most recommended shoulder-specific PROM considering the number of domains covered by the ICF and the clinical evaluation time consumption.Shoulder Pain and Disability Index fails to provide a broader view of functioning through other ICF domains that may influence shoulder pain and disability.

Fostering Stay at Work After a Period of Disability: A Scoping Review of Occupational Rehabilitation Strategies to Support Workers in the Adoption of Preventive Behaviours

PURPOSE

Based on the theoretical framework of the Model of Preventive Behaviours at Work, the aim of this study was to describe the the occupational rehabilitation strategies the literature reports that support workers who have suffered an occupational injury in adopting preventive behaviours.

METHODS

To conduct this scoping review, we used a systematic methodology in 7 steps : (1) definition of the research question and inclusion/exclusion criteria; (2) scientific and gray literature search; (3) determination of manuscripts' eligibility; (4) extraction and charting of information; (5) quality assessment; (6) interpretation; and (7) knowledge synthesis.

RESULTS

We selected 46 manuscripts of various types (e.g. randomized trials, qualitative studies, governmental documents). Manuscripts were mainly of good or high quality according to our quality assessment. The strategies for coaching, engaging, educating and collaborating were mostly reported in the literature to support the development of the six preventive behaviours during occupational rehabilitation. The results also suggest that heterogeneity exists regarding the specificity of the strategies reported in the literature, which may have hindered our ability to provide rich and detailed descriptions. Literature also mainly describes individually oriented behaviours and reports strategies requiring a low level of worker involvement, which represent issues to adress in future researh projects.

CONCLUSION

The strategies described in this article reprensent concrete levers that occupational rehabilitation professionals can use to support workers in the adoption of preventive behaviours at work on return from having suffered an occupational injury.

Neurophysiological pain education for patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effectiveness of neurophysiological pain education in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis considering pain-related variables.

METHODS

A systematic review and meta-analysis was carried out according to the PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted in PubMed, PEDro Database, Cochrane Library, Scopus, and Web of Science. Only randomized controlled trials enrolling patients ≥ 18 years of age with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis were included. The Downs and Black quality assessment tool was used to assess the quality of the articles, and the risk of bias was evaluated with the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool.

RESULTS

A total of 7 studies were included in the study. Most of the studies were rated as "fair" on the Downs and Black quality assessment tool, and in the category of "some concerns" according to the Cochrane Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Neurophysiological pain education was conducted alone or combined with exercise, joint mobilizations, or self-management programs. The number of sessions ranged from 1 to 10. The meta-analysis results showed significant differences in favor of the intervention group in pain (MD = -0.49; 95% CI = -0.66; -0.32; p < 0.001) and catastrophization (MD = -1.81; 95% CI = -3.31, -0.3; p = 0.02).

CONCLUSION, PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Neurophysiological pain education interventions in isolation or combined with exercise, joint mobilizations, or self-management programs have proven to significantly improve pain and catastrophization in patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis. These findings could provide clinicians with more information regarding the management of patients with symptomatic knee osteoarthritis.

The Web-Based Pain-at-Work Toolkit With Telephone Support for Employees With Chronic or Persistent Pain: Protocol for a Cluster Randomized Feasibility Trial

BACKGROUND

Chronic or persistent pain affects one's ability to work or be productive at work, generating high societal and economic burden. However, the provision of work-related advice and support for people with chronic pain is variable or lacking. The Pain-at-Work (PAW) Toolkit was cocreated with people who live with pain, health care professionals, and employers. It aims to increase knowledge about employee rights and how to access support for managing a painful chronic condition in the workplace and provides advice on lifestyle behaviors that facilitate the management of chronic pain.

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to establish the feasibility of conducting a definitive cluster randomized controlled trial comparing access to the PAW Toolkit and telephone support calls from an occupational therapist (PAW) with treatment as usual (ie, standard support from their employer). Our primary outcomes are establishing parameters of feasibility, acceptability, usability, and safety of this digital workplace health intervention. We will assess the candidate primary and secondary outcomes' feasibility and test research processes for a definitive trial.

METHODS

This is an open-label, parallel 2-arm pragmatic feasibility cluster randomized controlled trial with exploratory health economics analysis and a nested qualitative interview study. We aim to recruit 120 participants from at least 8 workplace clusters (any type, >10 employees) in England. The recruitment of workplaces occurs via personal approach, and the recruitment of individual participants is web based. Eligible participants are vocationally active adults aged ≥18 years with internet access and self-reporting chronic pain interfering with their ability to undertake or enjoy productive work. A restricted 1:1 cluster-level randomization is used to allocate employment settings to PAW or treatment as usual; participants are unblinded to group allocation. Following site- and individual-level consent, participants complete a web-based baseline survey (time 0), including measures of work capacity, health and well-being, and health care resource use. Follow-up is performed at 3 months (time 1) and 6 months (time 2). Feasibility outcomes relate to recruitment; intervention fidelity (eg, delivery, reach, uptake, and engagement); retention; and follow-up. Qualitative evaluation (time 2) is mapped to the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation-Behavior model and will explore intervention acceptability to employees and employers, along with individual and contextual factors influencing the delivery and uptake of the intervention.

RESULTS

Ethics approval was obtained in March 2023. Trial recruitment began in June 2023.

CONCLUSIONS

The PAW Toolkit is the first evidence-based digital health intervention aimed at supporting the self-management of chronic or persistent pain at work. This study will inform the design of a definitive trial, including sample size estimation, approaches to cluster site identification, primary and secondary outcomes' selection, and the final health economic model. Findings will inform approaches for the future delivery of this digital health intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT05838677; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05838677.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/51474.

Combination of health care service use and the relation to demographic and socioeconomic factors for patients with musculoskeletal disorders: a descriptive cohort study

BACKGROUND

Patients with musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) access health care in different ways. Despite the high prevalence and significant costs, we know little about the different ways patients use health care. We aim to fill this gap by identifying which combinations of health care services patients use for new MSDs, and its relation to clinical characteristics, demographic and socioeconomic factors, long-term use and costs, and discuss what the implications of this variation are.

METHODS

The study combines Norwegian registers on health care use, diagnoses, comorbidities, demographic and socioeconomic factors. Patients (≥ 18 years) are included by their first health consultation for MSD in 2013-2015. Latent class analysis (LCA) with count data of first year consultations for General Practitioners (GPs), hospital consultants, physiotherapists and chiropractors are used to identify combinations of health care use. Long-term high-cost patients are defined as total cost year 1-5 above 95th percentile (≥ 3 744€).

RESULTS

We identified seven latent classes: 1: GP, low use; 2: GP, high use; 3: GP and hospital; 4: GP and physiotherapy, low use; 5: GP, hospital and physiotherapy, high use; 6: Chiropractor, low use; 7: GP and chiropractor, high use. Median first year health care contacts varied between classes from 1-30 and costs from 20€-838€. Eighty-seven percent belonged to class 1, 4 or 6, characterised by few consultations and treatment in primary care. Classes with high first year use were characterised by higher age, lower education and more comorbidities and were overrepresented among the long-term high-cost users.

CONCLUSION

There was a large variation in first year health care service use, and we identified seven latent classes based on frequency of consultations. A small proportion of patients accounted for a high proportion of total resource use. This can indicate the potential for more efficient resource use. However, the effect of demographic and socioeconomic variables for determining combinations of service use can be interpreted as the health care system transforming unobserved patient needs into variations in use. These findings contribute to the understanding of clinical pathways and can help in the planning of future care, reduction in disparities and improvement in health outcomes for patients with MSDs.

Exploring the experiences and perceptions of participating in a peer-support intervention for adults with chronic non-cancer pain: a qualitative systematic review

OBJECTIVE

This review explored the experiences and perceptions of adults with chronic non-cancer pain who participated in peer-support interventions. This included adults' perceptions of intervention components, strengths and limitations of interventions, and barriers and facilitators for their implementation.

INTRODUCTION

Chronic pain, defined as pain that persists beyond 12 weeks or past normal tissue healing time, is a prevalent and costly issue. Peer-support interventions could play a pivotal role in the management of chronic pain. Studies have been conducted examining the perspectives of people with chronic pain on peer-support interventions; however, a systematic review had yet to be conducted to synthesize this evidence.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review included qualitative studies of any design that explored the experiences of adults (defined by the study's country of origin) with chronic pain during and after participation in a peer-support intervention.

METHODS

The methods for this review followed JBI methodological guidance for systematic reviews of qualitative evidence. AMED, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PsycArticles, and SPORTDiscus (all via EBSCOhost); Embase and PsycINFO (both via Ovid); and Web of Science databases were searched for published studies. EBSCO Open Dissertations, EThOS (British Library), the Networked Digital Library of Theses and Dissertations (Global ETD), and Google Scholar were searched for gray literature. Databases were searched from inception to April 2020, and all languages were considered for inclusion. All studies identified by the search were examined against the inclusion criteria. Papers selected for inclusion were assessed by 2 independent reviewers for methodological quality prior to inclusion in the review. Qualitative research findings were extracted and pooled. Findings were assembled and categorized based on similarity in meaning. These categories were then subjected to a meta-synthesis in order to produce a single comprehensive set of synthesized findings.

RESULTS

Seven studies with a total of 214 participants were included in the review. Most of the studies (5/7) were of moderate to high quality, following critical appraisal. From these studies, 53 findings were extracted and grouped into 14 categories. Four synthesized findings were compiled by aggregating the categories. Broadly, these synthesized findings related to the unique relationships formed between peers, benefits for both parties, essential intervention components, and barriers to implementation.

CONCLUSIONS

This was the first systematic review to summarize the experience of participating in a peer-support intervention for adults with chronic non-cancer pain. The synthesized findings from this review can be used by organizations to develop and implement peer-support interventions for adults with chronic non-cancer pain. Another main finding is the lack of research in this area, as only 7 studies were included after a comprehensive search. Furthermore, no evidence was found in the areas of intervention format, length of intervention, or frequency of contact between peer-support volunteers and participants. As such, these areas require further research. The generalizability of the included studies is also limited, as the studies represented only 4 countries (Canada, China, the United Kingdom, and the United States). The results, therefore, present the experiences of people from high-income settings and may not be contextualized to low- and middle-income countries; this warrants further research to be conducted in the latter countries.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42021245085.

Digital Technologies for Women's Pelvic Floor Muscle Training to Manage Urinary Incontinence Across Their Life Course: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Women with urinary incontinence (UI) may consider using digital technologies (DTs) to guide pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) to help manage their symptoms. DTs that deliver PFMT programs are readily available, yet uncertainty exists regarding whether they are scientifically valid, appropriate, and culturally relevant and meet the needs of women at specific life stages.

OBJECTIVE

This scoping review aims to provide a narrative synthesis of DTs used for PFMT to manage UI in women across their life course.

METHODS

This scoping review was conducted in accordance with the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological framework. A systematic search of 7 electronic databases was conducted, and primary quantitative and qualitative research and gray literature publications were considered. Studies were eligible if they focused on women with or without UI who had engaged with DTs for PFMT, reported on outcomes related to the use of PFMT DTs for managing UI, or explored users' experiences of DTs for PFMT. The identified studies were screened for eligibility. Data on the evidence base for and features of PFMT DTs using the Consensus on Exercise Reporting Template for PFMT, PFMT DT outcomes (eg, UI symptoms, quality of life, adherence, and satisfaction), life stage and culture, and the experiences of women and health care providers (facilitators and barriers) were extracted and synthesized by ≥2 independent reviewers.

RESULTS

In total, 89 papers were included (n=45, 51% primary and n=44, 49% supplementary) involving studies from 14 countries. A total of 28 types of DTs were used in 41 primary studies, including mobile apps with or without a portable vaginal biofeedback or accelerometer-based device, a smartphone messaging system, internet-based programs, and videoconferencing. Approximately half (22/41, 54%) of the studies provided evidence for or testing of the DTs, and a similar proportion of PFMT programs were drawn from or adapted from a known evidence base. Although PFMT parameters and program compliance varied, most studies that reported on UI symptoms showed improved outcomes, and women were generally satisfied with this treatment approach. With respect to life stage, pregnancy and the postpartum period were the most common focus, with more evidence needed for women of various age ranges (eg, adolescent and older women), including their cultural context, which is a factor that is rarely considered. Women's perceptions and experiences are often considered in the development of DTs, with qualitative data highlighting factors that are usually both facilitators and barriers.

CONCLUSIONS

DTs are a growing mechanism for delivering PFMT, as evidenced by the recent increase in publications. This review highlighted the heterogeneity in types of DTs, PFMT protocols, the lack of cultural adaptations of most of the DTs reviewed, and a paucity in the consideration of the changing needs of women across their life course.

Reduced pain and improved daily activities for individuals with hand osteoarthritis using a silicone wrist hand orthosis

BACKGROUND

Symptoms of hand osteoarthritis (OA), such as pain, reduced grip strength, loss of range of motion (ROM) and joint stiffness, can lead to impaired hand function and difficulty with daily activities. Rehabilitative interventions with orthoses are commonly in the treatment of hand OA to reduce pain, improve hand strength and ROM, provide support for improved function and help with joint stability.

PURPOSE

The objectives of this perception-based study were to evaluate the effect of a silicone wrist hand orthoses (SWHO) on pain and daily functioning.

STUDY DESIGN

This study is a qualitative descriptive study. The patient received outcome (PRO) questions in the study were based on the Patient Rated Wrist and/or Hand Evaluation (PRWHE), a 15-item questionnaire designed to measure wrist pain and disability in activities of daily living.

METHODS

Patients with OA using a SWHO were asked to complete a questionnaire about the effectiveness of the brace after wearing it for 3 weeks. Primary outcome measure was general daily functioning with and without the use of the SWHO. Secondary outcome measures were change in pain symptoms and limitations for certain activities with and without the aid.

RESULTS

The results of this large-scale PROM study of 551 patients on the effectiveness of SWHOs in patients with hand OA show an improvement in overall daily functioning of 77% and a 61% reduction in perceived pain. This study adds to the evidence reported by systematic reviews of conservative interventions for hand OA and further quantifies the effects of a tailor made SWHO. This study confirms that wearing a wrist orthosis has a particularly significant impact on the execution of static and repetitive wrist-straining activities.

CONCLUSION

The study on the effectiveness of a SWHO in patients with hand OA shows that the use of a SWHO contributes to general daily function, reduces pain and increases the breadth of potential daily activities. This study shows that the use of a SWHO appears to offer pain relief and suitable support to the joint.

Supported self-management for all with musculoskeletal pain: an inclusive approach to intervention development: the EASIER study

BACKGROUND

Supported self-management interventions for patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions may not adequately support those with limited health literacy, leading to inequalities in care and variable outcomes. The aim of this study was to develop a model for inclusive supported self-management intervention(s) for MSK pain that take account of health literacy.

METHODS

A mixed methods study with four work-packages was conducted: work package 1: secondary analysis of existing data to identify potential targets for intervention; work package 2: evidence synthesis to assess effective components of self-management interventions taking into account health literacy; work package 3: views of community members and healthcare professionals (HCPs) on essential components; work package 4: triangulation of findings and an online modified Delphi approach to reach consensus on key components of a logic model.

FINDINGS

Findings identified targets for intervention as self-efficacy, illness perceptions, and pain catastrophizing. A range of intervention components were identified (e.g. information in diverse formats offered at specific times, action planning and visual demonstrations of exercise). Support should be multi-professional using a combination of delivery modes (e.g. remote, face-to-face).

CONCLUSIONS

This research has developed a patient-centred model for a multi-disciplinary, multi-modal approach to supported self-management for patients with MSK pain and varying levels of health literacy. The model is evidence-based and acceptable to both patients and HCPs, with potential for significant impact on the management of MSK pain and for improving patient health outcomes. Further work is needed to establish its efficacy.

'Power to the People, to the people': Training for social prescribers improves support of persistent pain

Introduction

Supported self-management is an important aspect of managing pain, however widely held beliefs about the biomedical nature of pain and limited time availability can make it a tricky concept to introduce to patients. Social prescribers are in an ideal position to support self-management of pain if appropriate training is available to support them. This study aimed to evaluate training for social prescribers and to explore their opinions and experiences about providing self-management support.

Methods

This was a mixed methods study. Repeated measures t-tests were used to compare the reported confidence of attendees in supporting different facets of self-management before and after the training. Thematic analysis of interviews was used to develop a deeper understanding of how participants related the training to their work with patients.

Results

Average confidence improved in all aspects of supporting self-management, and particularly with regard to supporting understanding pain, acceptance, pacing, setting goals, sleep and managing setbacks. Challenges were identified around explaining pain in an accurate and accessible way in order to provide a meaningful rationale for self-management.

Conclusion

Training for social prescribers in self-management support is feasible and leads to improvements in self-reported confidence. Further research is needed to determine the impact on patients and over a longer period of time.

The feasibility of implementing a cultural mentoring program alongside pain management and physical rehabilitation for chronic musculoskeletal conditions: results of a controlled before-and-after pilot study

BACKGROUND

Culturally diverse communities face barriers managing chronic musculoskeletal pain conditions including navigation challenges, sub-optimal healthcare provider engagement and difficulty adopting self-management behaviours.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the feasibility and trends of effectiveness of implementing a cultural mentoring program alongside clinical service delivery.

METHODS

This quasi-experimental controlled before-and-after multiple case study was conducted in three hospital-based services that provide treatment for patients with musculoskeletal pain. Two prospective cohorts, a pre-implementation and a post-implementation cohort, of adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain who attended during the 6-month recruitment phase, were eligible if they self-identified with one of the cultures prioritised for mentoring by the clinic. The pre-implementation cohort received routine care for up to 3-months, while the post-implementation cohort received up to 3-months of cultural mentoring integrated into routine care (3 to 10 sessions), provided by a consumer (n = 6) with lived experience. Feasibility measures (recruitment and completion rates, attendance, satisfaction), and trends of effectiveness (Patient Activation Measure and Health Literacy Questionnaire items one and six) were collated over 3-months for both cohorts. Outcomes were presented descriptively and analysed using Mann-Whitney U-tests for between-group comparisons. Translation and transcription of post-treatment semi-structured interviews allowed both cohorts' perspectives of treatment to be analysed using a Rapid Assessment Process.

RESULTS

The cultural mentor program was feasible to implement in clinical services with comparable recruitment rates (66% pre-implementation; 61% post-implementation), adequate treatment attendance (75% pre-implementation; 89% post-implementation), high treatment satisfaction (97% pre-implementation; 96% post-implementation), and minimal participant drop-out (< 5%). Compared to routine care (n = 71), patients receiving mentoring (n = 55) achieved significantly higher Patient Activation Measure scores (median change 0 vs 10.3 points, p < 0.01) at 3-months, while Health Literacy Questionnaire items did not change for either cohort over time. Three themes underpinned participant experiences and acceptability of the mentoring intervention: 'expectational priming', 'lived expertise' and 'collectivist orientation' to understand shared participant experiences and explore the potential differential effect of the mentoring intervention.

CONCLUSION

Participant experiences and observations of improved patient activation provide support for the acceptability of the mentoring intervention integrated into routine care. These results support the feasibility of conducting a definitive trial, while also exploring issues of scalability and sustainability.

"FastSchool": A single session of an interprofessional pain management program for chronic pain patients inspired by cognitive behavioral therapy

OBJECTIVES

Multidisciplinary approaches to treating chronic pain have been proven effective. Currently, chronic pain patients face lengthy waitlists in pain medicine departments. To overcome this problem, we developed the "FastSchool" program to educate patients about pain management and treatment. In this study, we evaluated the benefit of a "FastSchool" session on pain and catastrophizing in chronic pain patients.

METHODS

Included patients had chronic non-cancer pain, no more than 2 visits to a pain medicine department. Patients attended a single 3-hour session, conducted by an interprofessional team. Four topics were addressed: chronic pain mechanisms, pharmacological therapies, physical activity, and the management of analgesics. Patients completed questionnaires at baseline and at 3 months post-session to assess pain interference, pain intensity, and catastrophizing.

RESULTS

The study population included 88 patients; 71 completed the follow-up questionnaires. Pain interference (p = 0.002), average pain intensity (p = 0.013), and catastrophizing (p < 0.001) decreased 3 months after FastSchool. At M3, 35 % of patients felt their pain had improved based on the Patient Global Impression of Change.

CONCLUSION

FastSchool, an innovative short-term educational program inspired by cognitive behavioral therapy, showed positive results in reducing pain impact.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Implementation of FastSchool in pain medicine departments would reduce waitlist times for non-pharmacological treatment.

Self-Guided Smartphone Application to Manage Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized, Controlled Pilot Trial

OBJECTIVE

The goal of this study is to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of an auricular point acupressure smartphone app (mAPA) to self-manage chronic musculoskeletal pain.

METHODS

A prospective, longitudinal, randomized, controlled pilot trial was conducted using a three-group design (self-guided mAPA (n = 14); in-person mAPA (n = 12); and control (n = 11)). The primary outcomes included physical function and pain intensity.

RESULTS

After a 4-week APA intervention, participants in the in-person mAPA group had improved physical function of 32% immediately post-intervention and 29% at the 1M follow-up. Participants in the self-guided mAPA group had higher improvement (42% at post-intervention and 48% at the 1M follow-up). Both mAPA groups had similar degrees of pain intensity relief at post-intervention (45% for in-person and 48% for the self-guided group) and the 1M follow-up (42% for in-person and 45% for the self-guided group). Over 50% of the participants in each group reached at least 30% reduced pain intensity at post-intervention, and this was sustained in the mAPA groups at the 1M follow-up. Approximately 80% of the participants in both mAPA groups were satisfied with the treatment outcomes and adhered to the suggested APA practice; however, participants in the self-guided group had higher duration and more frequency in APA use. The attrition rate was 16% at the 1M follow-up. No adverse effects of APA were reported, and participants found APA to be beneficial and the app to be valuable.

CONCLUSIONS

The study findings indicate that participants effectively learned APA using a smartphone app, whether they were self-guided or received in-person training. They were able to self-administer APA to successfully manage their pain. Participants found APA to be valuable in their pain self-management and expressed satisfaction with the intervention using the app.

Patient education materials for non-specific low back pain and sciatica: A systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Guidelines recommend patient education materials (PEMs) for low back pain (LBP), but no systematic review has assessed PEMs on their own. We investigated the effectiveness of PEMs on process, clinical, and health system outcomes for LBP and sciatica.

METHODS

Systematic searches were performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus, trial registries and grey literature through OpenGrey. We included randomized controlled trials of PEMs for LBP. Data extraction, risk of bias, and quality of evidence gradings were performed independently by two reviewers. Standardized mean differences or risk ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated, and effect sizes pooled using random-effects models. Analyses of acute/subacute LBP were performed separately from chronic LBP at immediate, short, medium, and long-term (6, 12, 24, and 52 weeks, respectively).

RESULTS

27 studies were identified. Compared to usual care for chronic LBP, we found moderate to low-quality evidence that PEMs improved pain intensity at immediate (SMD = -0.16 [95% CI: -0.29, -0.03]), short (SMD = -0.44 [95% CI: -0.88, 0.00]), medium (SMD = -0.53 [95% CI: -1.01, -0.05]), and long-term (SMD = -0.21 [95% CI: -0.41, -0.01]), medium-term disability (SMD = -0.32 [95% CI: -0.61, -0.03]), quality of life at short (SMD = -0.17 [95% CI: -0.30, -0.04]) and medium-term (SMD = -0.23 [95% CI: -0.41, -0.04]) and very low-quality evidence that PEMs improved global improvement ratings at immediate (SMD = -0.40 [95% CI: -0.58, -0.21]), short (SMD = -0.42 [95% CI: -0.60, -0.24]), medium (SMD = -0.46 [95% CI: -0.65, -0.28]), and long-term (SMD = -0.43 [95% CI: -0.61, -0.24]). We found very low-quality evidence that PEMs improved pain self-efficacy at immediate (SMD = -0.21 [95% CI: -0.39, -0.03]), short (SMD = -0.25 [95% CI: -0.43, -0.06]), medium (SMD = -0.23 [95% CI: -0.41, -0.05]), and long-term (SMD = -0.32 [95% CI: -0.50, -0.13]), and reduced medium-term fear-avoidance beliefs (SMD = -0.24 [95% CI: -0.43, -0.06]) and long-term stress (SMD = -0.21 [95% CI: -0.39, -0.03]). Compared to usual care for acute LBP, we found high to moderate-quality evidence that PEMs improved short-term pain intensity (SMD = -0.24 [95% CI: -0.42, -0.06]) and immediate-term quality of life (SMD = -0.24 [95% CI: -0.42, -0.07]). We found low to very low-quality evidence that PEMs increased knowledge at immediate (SMD = -0.51 [95% CI: -0.72, -0.31]), short (SMD = -0.48 [95% CI: -0.90, -0.05]), and long-term (RR = 1.28 [95% CI: 1.10, 1.49]) and pain self-efficacy at short (SMD = -0.78 [95% CI: -0.98, -0.58]) and long-term (SMD = -0.32 [95% CI: -0.52, -0.12]). We found moderate to very low-quality evidence that PEMs reduced short-term days off work (SMD = -0.35 [95% CI: -0.63, -0.08]), long-term imaging referrals (RR = 0.60 [95% CI: 0.41, 0.89]), and long-term physician visits (SMD = -0.16 [95% CI: -0.26, -0.05]). Compared to other interventions (e.g., yoga, Pilates), PEMs had no effect or were less effective for acute/subacute and chronic LBP.

CONCLUSIONS

There was a high degree of variability across outcomes and time points, but providing PEMs appears favorable to usual care as we observed many small, positive patient and system impacts for acute/subacute and chronic LBP. PEMs were generally less effective than other interventions; however, no cost effectiveness analyses were performed to weigh the relative benefits of these interventions to the likely less costly PEMs.

Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Disorders in the Workplace from the Perspective of Older Employees: A Mixed Methods Research Study

(1) Background: This mixed methods research (MMR) study explored older employees’ experiences of chronic musculoskeletal disorders (CMSDs) in relation to their employment, their perspectives on managing these conditions in the workplace and the strategies used to facilitate and maintain their roles and responsibilities. The services offered to them were also identified. (2) Methods: A mixed methods exploratory sequential design was implemented. In the first qualitative phase, 16 semi-structured interviews gathered in-depth information from older employees. The findings informed the development of an online questionnaire in the survey phase, which was administered to older employees (N = 107). Both sets of findings were then integrated using a narrative joint display. (3) Results: The phenomena of presenteeism and leaveism were important components of employees’ strategies for managing their condition. The integrated findings highlighted the roles of employers, managers and social support in encouraging disclosure and supporting the management of CMSDs. The results also emphasised how self-management and professional health services are crucial for sustaining employability. (4) Conclusions: Current challenges call for employers to identify effective ways to support the ageing workforce and invest in training opportunities for managers and collaborative opportunities with healthcare professionals and other stakeholders. A flexible, empathetic and resourceful work environment is optimal for supporting sustained employability for an ageing workforce.

How useful is the Making Every Contact Count Healthy Conversation Skills approach for supporting people with musculoskeletal conditions?

Aim

To explore the current use and perceptions of the Wessex model of Making Every Contact Count (MECC), incorporating Healthy Conversation Skills (HCS), focussing specifically on physiotherapists supporting people living with musculoskeletal conditions.

Methods

A mixed method, sequential explanatory design was employed. This article reports the first phase of the study, in which an online questionnaire was administered, consisting of items relating to perceived acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility, sustainability, and uptake of MECC HCS. Barriers and facilitators to MECC HCS delivery were additionally explored and mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Results

Seventy-one professionals responded, including 15 physiotherapists supporting people with MSK conditions. Across professional groups, MECC HCS was found to be highly acceptable, appropriate, and feasible. A significant interaction between perceived sustainability of MECC HCS and the location in which professionals worked was observed. Physiotherapists reported using their MECC HCS at least daily; however, there were discrepancies between the number of their patients they believed could benefit from behaviour change intervention, and the number to whom they reported actually delivering MECC HCS. Perceived barriers and facilitators to MECC HCS implementation mapped mostly to ‘Environmental Context and Resources’ on the Theoretical Domains Framework.

Conclusions

The Wessex model of MECC is a promising brief or very brief intervention for physiotherapists supporting individuals with musculoskeletal conditions. Barriers associated with the sustainability of the intervention within organisations must be addressed in order to enhance future implementation. Further rollout of this intervention may be beneficial for meeting the goals of the NHS and Public Health England in prevention of chronic MSK conditions and promotion of musculoskeletal health.

Guided self-determination in treatment of chronic pain - a randomized, controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To test whether Guided Self-Determination (GSD) used in chronic pain management could improve the health-related quality of life, patient activation and sense of coherence (SoC) as a measurement of life skills in patients with chronic pain. The method has been shown to be effective in other chronic conditions, but has not been tested in chronic pain.

METHODS

A three-site randomised, controlled trial at three major multidisciplinary pain centres in Denmark. 200 patients were included and randomised. In the intervention period, both groups had regular visits to the pain centre with both doctors and nurses. The intervention group additionally received the GSD intervention with weekly sessions for eight weeks. Data were collected from February 2013 to July 2016 and consisted of three questionnaires answered before and after the 8-week intervention period, and after six months. The primary outcome was self-reported health related quality of life. Secondary outcomes included self-reported activation and SoC.

RESULTS

We found no clinically relevant difference between the groups for health-related quality of life, patient activation or SoC at either baseline, at three months or at six months. We also analysed data for trends over time using mixed model analysis, and this did not show any significant differences between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

GSD did not improve health-related quality of life, patient activation or SoC when administered to patients with chronic pain treated in a multidisciplinary pain centre. New research is recommended using a combination of self-reported and objective measures and longer follow-up.

Self-Management for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a high incidence chronic joint disease that seriously affects patients' quality of life, and current treatment methods have limited efficacy. Self-management may be an effective strategy for KOA, and clinicians have been showing increased interest recently. However, the effectiveness of self-management for KOA remains controversial.

Purpose

This study aims to systematically evaluate the effectiveness of self-management for KOA.

Methods

We screened articles published in MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and Web of Science until September 17, 2021. The main outcomes included pain, knee function, stiffness, WOMAC (total), physical function, arthritis self-efficacy (ASE-pain), arthritis self-efficacy (ASE-other symptoms), mental health, and quality of life.

Results

Thirteen randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were finally included (n = 1610). Meta-analysis showed differences in pain, knee function, stiffness, ASE-pain, ASE-other symptoms, mental health, and quality of life between the self-management and control groups. Of the nine outcomes evaluated, four were highly heterogeneous, and the quality of evidence ranged from very low to moderate.

Conclusion

The meta-analysis results showed that self-management might help improve the pain, knee function, stiffness, ASE, mental health, and quality of life in patients with KOA. However, it has no significant effect on WOMAC (total) and physical function. Considering that this study has some limitations, we cannot draw clear conclusions based on the results of this study. Nevertheless, we offer much needed insight and encourage more rigorously designed and implemented RCTs in the future to substantiate our conclusions.

Health care providers' understanding of self-management support for people with chronic low back pain in Ethiopia: an interpretive description

BACKGROUND

Healthcare providers play a key role in supporting people with chronic low back pain to self-manage their condition. The study aimed at exploring how health care providers understand and conceptualize self-management and how they provide self-management support for people with chronic low back pain in Ethiopia.

METHODS

Health care providers who have supported people with low back pain, including medical doctors and physiotherapists, were approached and recruited from three hospitals in Ethiopia. This study employed an interpretive descriptive approach using semi-structured interviews.

FINDINGS

Twenty-four participants (7 women; 17 men) with a median age of 28 (range 24 to 42) years and a median of 9.5 years (range 1 to 11 years) of helping people with chronic low back pain were interviewed. Seven major themes related to health care providers' understanding of self-management support for people with chronic low back pain in Ethiopia emerged. The findings show that self-management was a new concept to many and health care providers' had a fragmented understanding of self-management. They used or suggested several self-management support strategies to help people with CLBP self-manage their condition without necessarily focusing on enhancing their self-efficacy skills. The participants also discussed several challenges to facilitate self-management support for people with chronic low back pain. Despite the lack of training on the concept, the providers discussed the potential of providing self-management support for people with the condition.

CONCLUSIONS

Self-management was a new concept to health care providers. The providers lack the competencies to provide self-management support for people with chronic low back pain. There is a need to enhance the health care providers' self-management support competencies through training.

Musculoskeletal Pain Is Associated with Dietary Diversity Score among Community-Dwelling Older Adult: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background. Musculoskeletal pains (MSP) are the most common cause of long-term severe pain and physical disability among older adults. This study is aimed at determining the relationship between dietary diversity score (DDS) and MSP in Tehran’s older adults. Methods. The study was a cross-sectional one that employed 213 participants with and without MSP complaints between May and October 2019 in Tehran, Iran. A 100 mm length visual analog scale questionnaire was used to assess pain along with a validated 147-item food frequency questionnaire for DDS evaluation. Statistical analyses included descriptive analysis and multiple linear regression with a significance level of $p<0.05$ . Results. 85% of the participants had a range of MSP with a low but insignificant DDS compared to individuals without pain ( $p=0.12$ , $3.24\left(\pm 0.86\right)$ vs. $3.43\left(\pm 0.85\right)$ , respectively). A significant association was observed among the quartiles of DDS that most of the subjects with MSP were in the lowest quartile relative to the highest one ( $p=0.02$ ). Moreover, the association between DDS and MSP remained significant in the adjusted model ( $\text{OR}=0.28$ , $95\%\left(\text{CI}\right)=0.08-0.99$ ). Conclusion. A high-quality diet is important. Our study showed that a higher dietary diversity might be associated with lower MSP in older adults. More robust interventional studies are thus warranted to confirm the results.

Community-based interventions for chronic musculoskeletal health conditions in rural and remote populations: A systematic review

Chronic musculoskeletal health conditions are highly prevalent in rural and remote areas, globally. It is unknown, however, whether interventions shown to be effective for urban populations are also effective for rural and remote populations. The purpose of the review was to evaluate the effectiveness of community-based interventions for management of chronic musculoskeletal health conditions in rural and remote populations. A systematic review was undertaken of the major databases: Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, Rural and Remote Health, Embase and PEDro to April 2020 with no restrictions on language or publication date. Odds Ratios were calculated to report differences between intervention and control groups. Risk of bias was assessed using the PEDro scale. Meta-analysis was not conducted, given the high heterogeneity among studies. From a total of 3,219 articles identified from the title search, five studies were eligible, with a total of 2,831 participants. Interventions evaluated included education alone, exercise with education and ergonomic modifications. Community-based education and exercise led to significantly reduced chronic musculoskeletal pain [OR = 1.85 (95% CI 1.22, 2.82)] compared with controls. Ergonomic stove installation significantly reduced average prevalence of back pain (0.25% reduction in pain prevalence; p < .05); however, no significant effect [OR = 1.02 (0.63, 1.65)] was found when transformed to Odds Ratio. There were divergent findings for education programmes alone: one study reported a positive effect [OR = 1.78 (1.27, 2.49)], while another reported no significant effect [delivered either in home [OR: 1.21 (0.78, 1.86)] or in small groups [OR = 0.95 (0.60, 1.51)]. A significant improvement in knowledge was found with community-based education delivered in participants' homes [SMD: 1.27 (1.01, 1.54)], in small groups [SMD: 0.79 (0.53, 1.06)], using traditional puppetry [SMD: 4.79 (4.51, 5.06)], and with education and exercise [SMD: 0.29 (0.06, 0.52)]. There is low quality evidence that education and/or exercise improves knowledge of arthritis, and the effectiveness of ergonomic interventions on pain was unclear.

Physiotherapy support for self-management of persisting musculoskeletal pain disorders

BACKGROUND

Musculoskeletal pain (MSKP) is an extremely common pain disorder in almost all populations. Self-management (SM) support is a programme to prepare people to self-manage their health condition effectively, while maintaining quality of life. SM is a cost-effective and context-specific strategy to address the global public health burden.

OBJECTIVES

Self-management needs a change in behaviour from seeking unnecessary medical care to safely self-managing symptoms. As changing individuals' behaviour is challenging, the objective of my literature review was to identify the characteristics, in both therapist and patient, to successfully engage in SM.

METHOD

A narrative literature review, that could inform evidence-based support programmes for SM of MSKP.

RESULTS

Studies on successful implementation of SM of MSKP do not report strong outcomes. However, in more recent years a few positive outcomes were reported, possibly as a result of research evidence for the application of psychosocial skills and contemporary pain neuroscience in the management of persistent MSKP.

CONCLUSION

Psychologically-informed physiotherapy, addressing psychosocial barriers to the maintenance of SM programmes, could facilitate more successful outcomes.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Before engaging in a SM support programme, obstacles to behaviour change must be identified and addressed in a SM support programme, to facilitate individuals towards taking safe responsibility for their healthcare. Therapists working with patients with persistent MSKP, should upskill themselves to be in line with the latest pain and psychosocial research literature. Moreover, communication skills training seems to be a priority for effective SM support programmes.

2021 EULAR recommendations for the implementation of self-management strategies in patients with inflammatory arthritis

BACKGROUND

An important but often insufficient aspect of care in people with inflammatory arthritis (IA) is empowering patients to acquire a good understanding of their disease and building their ability to deal effectively with the practical, physical and psychological impacts of it. Self-management skills can be helpful in this regard.

OBJECTIVES

To develop recommendations for the implementation of self-management strategies in IA.

METHODS

A multidisciplinary taskforce of 18 members from 11 European countries was convened. A systematic review and other supportive information (survey of healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patient organisations) were used to formulate the recommendations.

RESULTS

Three overarching principles and nine recommendations were formulated. These focused on empowering patients to become active partners of the team and to take a more proactive role. The importance of patient education and key self-management interventions such as problem solving, goal setting and cognitive behavioural therapy were highlighted. Role of patient organisations and HCPs in promoting and signposting patients to available resources has been highlighted through the promotion of physical activity, lifestyle advice, support with mental health aspects and ability to remain at work. Digital healthcare is essential in supporting and optimising self-management and the HCPs need to be aware of available resources to signpost patients.

CONCLUSION

These recommendations support the inclusion of self-management advice and resources in the routine management of people with IA and aim to empower and support patients and encourage a more holistic, patient-centred approach to care which could result in improved patient experience of care and outcomes.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for chronic pain on functioning: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Chronic pain is a worldwide health problem, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is regarded as one of the promising interventions. ACT aims to help chronic pain patients to create space for pursuing valued life activities in spite of pain. This systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examined the efficacy of ACT on functioning for chronic pain. Literature search was performed among seven databases, and 12 RCTs were retrieved. The revised Cochrane risk of bias tool (RoB 2.0) was employed to assess the quality of the 12 RCTs, of which 10 were rated as "low risks", and 2 as "some concerns". Effect sizes of single RCTs and the pooled effect sizes of meta analyses were all rated by Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) system. Low to moderate evidence showed that ACT played a positive immediate role in functioning for patients with chronic pain; however, it is inconsistent whether the effect can be sustained. More RCTs are warranted within specific chronic pain conditions.

Staying at work with musculoskeletal pain: What supporting resources do people need?

INTRODUCTION

Maintaining productive employment can be challenging for people with ongoing low back pain (LBP) or neck pain (NP) due to pain, function and participation sequelae. Resources and information to support them staying at work may be beneficial, although preferences for the nature and accessibility of resources remain uncertain. The current study aimed to explore the work experiences and information-seeking behaviours of employed individuals with ongoing LBP or NP, to support them in staying at work.

METHOD

Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with 40 participants currently employed with ongoing LBP or NP. The interview schedule covered participants' experience of managing their LBP or NP at work, resources sought to assist with finding or maintaining employment, and where they accessed these resources. Interviews were recorded and analysed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Participants were employed in a wide range of job types and most reported a decrease in productivity. Five key themes were identified: (1) the meaning of work, (2) to disclose or not, (3) information seeking, (4) gaps in resources, (5) trusted sources. Work was highly valued by participants, despite the challenges in maintaining employment with ongoing LBP or NP. To support staying at work a range of information was sought by participants, but challenges in accessing reputable resources and trusting the sources were identified as key issues.

CONCLUSION

Opportunities exist for easily accessible, multi-level information from trustworthy sources targeted at the employer organisations, individuals and clinicians to support people in staying at work with ongoing LBP or NP.

Patient education improves pain and function in people with knee osteoarthritis with better effects when combined with exercise therapy: a systematic review

QUESTION

Is patient education effective as a standalone intervention or combined with other interventions for people with knee osteoarthritis?

DESIGN

Systematic review of randomised controlled trials. MEDLINE, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL and Web of Science were searched from inception to April 2020. The Cochrane Risk of Bias tool was used for included studies, and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) was used to interpret certainty of results.

PARTICIPANTS

People with knee osteoarthritis.

INTERVENTION

Any patient education intervention compared with any non-pharmacological comparator.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary outcomes were self-reported pain and function.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine trials involving 4,107 participants were included, informing low to very-low certainty evidence. Nineteen of 28 (68%) pooled comparisons were not statistically significant. Patient education was superior to usual care for pain (SMD -0.35, 95% CI -0.56 to -0.14) and function in the short term (-0.31, 95% CI -0.62 to 0.00), but inferior to exercise therapy for pain in the short term (0.77, 95% CI 0.07 to 1.47). Combining patient education with exercise therapy produced superior outcomes compared with patient education alone for pain in the short term (0.44, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.69) and function in the short (0.81, 95% CI 0.54 to 1.08) and medium term (0.39, 95% CI 0.15 to 0.62). When using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index for these comparisons, clinically important differences indicated that patient education was inferior to exercise therapy for pain in the short term (MD 1.56, 95% CI 0.14 to 2.98) and the combination of patient education and exercise therapy for function in the short term (8.94, 95% CI 6.05 to 11.82).

CONCLUSION

Although patient education produced statistically superior short-term pain and function outcomes compared with usual care, differences were small and may not be clinically important. Patient education should not be provided as a standalone treatment and should be combined with exercise therapy to provide statistically superior and clinically important short-term improvements in function compared with education alone.

REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42019122004.

Effectiveness of self-management interventions in inflammatory arthritis: a systematic review informing the 2021 EULAR recommendations for the implementation of self-management strategies in patients with inflammatory arthritis

OBJECTIVE

To perform a systematic review (SR) on the effectiveness of self-management interventions, in order to inform the European League Against Rheumatism Recommendations for its implementation in patients with inflammatory arthritis (IA).

METHODS

The SR was conducted according to the Cochrane Handbook and included adults (≥18 years) with IA. The search strategy was run in Medline through PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL Plus with Full Text, and PEDro. The assessment of risk of bias, data extraction and synthesis were performed by two reviewers independently. A narrative Summary of Findings was provided according to the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation.

RESULTS

From a total 1577 references, 57 were selected for a full-text review, and 32 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria (19 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and 13 SRs). The most studied self-management components were specific interactive disease education in ten RCTs, problem solving in nine RCTs, cognitive-behavioural therapy in eight RCTs, goal setting in six RCTs, patient education in five RCTs and response training in two RCTs. The most studied interventions were multicomponent or single exercise/physical activity in six SRs, psychosocial interventions in five SRs and education in two SRs. Overall, all these specific components and interventions of self-management have beneficial effects on IAs-related outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings confirm the beneficial effect of the self-management interventions in IA and the importance of their implementation. Further research should focus on the understanding that self-management is a complex intervention to allow the isolation of the effectiveness of its different components.

Integrating patient perspectives in the development of a mobile health intervention to address chronic pain and heavy drinking in primary care: a qualitative study of patients in an urban, safety-net hospital setting

Background

Chronic pain and heavy drinking are conditions that commonly co-occur among primary care patients. Despite the availability of behavioral interventions that target these conditions individually, engagement and adherence to treatment remain a challenge, and there have been no interventions designed to address both of these conditions together for patients presenting to primary care. This study seeks to incorporate the perspectives of patients regarding symptoms, treatment experiences, views on behavior change, and technology use to develop a tailored, integrated mobile health intervention that addresses both pain and heavy drinking among patients in primary care.

Methods

Twelve participants with moderate or greater chronic pain intensity and heavy drinking were recruited from primary care clinics in a large urban safety-net hospital. One-on-one interviews were recorded and transcribed. Codes were developed from interview transcripts, followed by thematic analysis in which specific meanings were assigned to codes. Participants also completed a series of Likert-based rating scales to evaluate components of the proposed intervention to supplement qualitative interviews.

Results

A number of themes were identified that had implications for intervention tailoring including: ambivalence about changing drinking, low expectations about pain treatment success, desire for contact with a designated provider, common use of smartphones but lack of familiarity with functions as a potential barrier to use, and strategies to maintain engagement and adherence. Evaluative ratings indicated that the proposed intervention content was perceived as helpful and the proposed structure, layout and design of the mobile intervention was acceptable to patients.

Conclusions

Results supported the view that a mobile health intervention delivered via smartphone with electronic coaching is an acceptable method of addressing chronic pain and heavy drinking among patients in primary care. The interviews highlight the need to utilize an intervention approach that addresses motivation to change drinking, sets realistic expectations for change, provides careful attention to training/education of the use of technology components, and fosters engagement through the use of reminders, feedback, and personalized activities.

Examination of the clinical factors associated with attendance at emergency departments for chronic pain management and the cost of treatment relative to that of other significant medical conditions

ABSTRACT

Little is known about risk factors for emergency department (ED) attendance for chronic pain (CP) management and the relative service burden. We examined ED utilisation in patients with CP, identified risk factors associated with attendance for chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP), and estimated the comparative cost of treatment. The study cohort comprised a random sample of 3700 adults from the general population in Tayside, Scotland. Linked regional extracts, spanning a 12-month period, were obtained from national registers, providing information on ED attendances, community-dispensed prescribing, and outpatient clinic attendances. The National Health Service Scotland Cost Book was used to ascertain the current average cost of an ED attendance (£130; ∼$167). All-cause ED attendance was higher in those with CP (68.5%; n = 252) than without (29.3%; n = 967). In the entire cohort, more patients attended the ED for the treatment of CMP than for any other medical condition (n = 119; 32.3% of those with CP). Risk factors for ED attendance for CMP were: recent analgesic dose decreases (OR = 4.55); and transitioning from opioid to nonopioid analgesics (OR = 5.08). Characteristics protective of ED attendance for CMP were: being in receipt of strong opioids (OR = 0.21); transitioning from nonopioid to opioid analgesics (OR = 0.25); recent analgesic dose increases (OR = 0.24); and being prescribed tricyclic antidepressants (OR = 0.10), benzodiazepines (OR = 0.46), or hypnotics (OR = 0.45). Chronic musculoskeletal pain was one of the most expensive conditions to treat (£17,680 [∼$22,668] per annum), conferring a substantial burden on ED services. Improved understanding of the risk/protective factors could inform healthcare redesign to reduce avoidable ED attendances for CMP management.

Adherence to and the Maintenance of Self-Management Behaviour in Older People with Musculoskeletal Pain-A Scoping Review and Theoretical Models

(1) Background: Adherence to and the maintenance of treatment regimens are fundamental for pain self-management and sustainable behavioural changes. The first aim was to study older adults' (>65 years) levels of adherence to and maintenance of musculoskeletal pain self-management programmes in randomized controlled trials. The second aim was to suggest theoretical models of adherence to and maintenance of a behaviour. (2) Methods: The study was conducted in accordance with the recommendations for a scoping review and the PRISMA-ScR checklist. Capability, motivation and opportunity were used to categorize the behavioural change components in the theoretical models. (3) Results: Among the four studies included, components targeting adherence were reported in one study, and maintenance was reported in two studies. Adherence was assessed by the treatment attendance rates, and maintenance was assessed by the follow-up data of outcome measures. For adherence, the capability components were mostly about education and the supervision, grading and mastery of exercise to increase self-efficacy. The motivation components included the readiness to change, self-monitoring and goal setting; and the opportunity components included booster sessions, feedback and social support. For maintenance, the capability components consisted of identifying high-risk situations for relapse and problem-solving skills. The motivation components included self-regulation and self-efficacy for problem solving, and the opportunity components included environmental triggers and problem solving by using social support. (4) Conclusion: There are several behavioural change components that should be used to increase older adults' levels of adherence to and maintenance of a pain self-management behaviour.

Acceptance and commitment therapy for chronic pain conditions on functioning: A systematic review protocol

AIM

To explore the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) on chronic pain in terms of functioning; and to identify the most promising modes and patterns for implementing ACT.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

We will include randomized controlled trials which focus on the efficacy of ACT on chronic pain conditions with functioning as the primary outcome. Seven databases have been searched and grey literature will also be systematically searched for. Eligible studies will be screened. The newly revised Cochrane risk of bias tool will be used to assess the quality of the included studies. Data will be extracted, and meta-analyses will be performed within specific condition groups of chronic pain. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses will be employed to identify the efficacious modes and patterns for implementing the therapy. Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach will be applied to reach a convincing conclusion. The study has been funded since July 2018.

DISCUSSION

This systematic review aims to explore the efficacy of ACT for chronic pain on functioning based on the latest evidence. The most promising manners will be identified for designing and delivering the therapy. An accurate, transparent, and standardized review process is expected by adhering to the instructions of relevant guidelines.

IMPACT

Chronic pain is prevalent worldwide and reduced functioning is one of the leading consequences. With the anticipated evidence of high level, this research attempts to examine the role of acceptance and commitment therapy, a promising psychological intervention, in the management of chronic pain for improving individual's functioning status. The systematic review may contribute to a more convincing and targeted conclusion compared with the existing studies of its kind.

Feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial evaluating a theory-driven group-based complex intervention versus usual physiotherapy to support self-management of osteoarthritis and low back pain (SOLAS)

BACKGROUND

The self-management of osteoarthritis (OA) and low back pain (LBP) through activity and skills (SOLAS) theory-driven group-based complex intervention was developed primarily for the evaluation of its acceptability to patients and physiotherapists and the feasibility of trial procedures, to inform the potential for a definitive trial.

METHODS

This assessor-blinded multicentre two-arm parallel cluster randomised controlled feasibility trial compared the SOLAS intervention to usual individual physiotherapy (UP; pragmatic control group). Patients with OA of the hip, knee, lumbar spine and/or chronic LBP were recruited in primary care physiotherapy clinics (i.e. clusters) in Dublin, Ireland, between September 2014 and November 2015. The primary feasibility objectives were evaluated using quantitative methods and individual telephone interviews with purposive samples of participants and physiotherapists. A range of secondary outcomes were collected at baseline, 6 weeks (behaviour change only), 2 months and 6 months to explore the preliminary effects of the intervention. Analysis was by intention-to-treat according to participants' cluster allocation and involved descriptive analysis of the quantitative data and inductive thematic analysis of the qualitative interviews. A linear mixed model was used to contrast change over time in participant secondary outcomes between treatment arms, while adjusting for study waves and clusters.

RESULTS

Fourteen clusters were recruited (7 per trial arm), each cluster participated in two waves of recruitment, with the average cluster size below the target of six participants (intervention: mean (SD) = 4.92 (1.31), range 2-7; UP: mean (SD) = 5.08 (2.43), range 1-9). One hundred twenty participants (83.3% of n = 144 expected) were recruited (intervention n = 59; UP n = 61), with follow-up data obtained from 80.8% (n = 97) at 6 weeks, 84.2% (n = 101) at 2 months and 71.7% (n = 86) at 6 months. Most participants received treatment as allocated (intervention n = 49; UP n = 54). The qualitative interviews (12 participants; 10 physiotherapists (PTs) found the intervention and trial procedures acceptable and appropriate, with minimal feasible adaptations required. Linear mixed methods showed improvements in most secondary outcomes at 2 and 6 months with small between-group effects.

CONCLUSIONS

While the SOLAS intervention and trial procedures were acceptable to participants and PTs, the recruitment of enough participants is the biggest obstacle to a definitive trial.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ISRCTN ISRCTN49875385 . Registered on 26 March 2014.

Patient education materials for non-specific low back pain and sciatica: a protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Low back pain accounts for more disability than any other musculoskeletal condition and is associated with severe economic burden. Patients commonly present with negative beliefs about low back pain and this can have detrimental effects on their health outcomes. Providing evidence-based, patient-centred education that meets patient needs could help address these negative beliefs and alleviate the substantial low back pain burden. The primary aim of this review is to investigate the effectiveness of patient education materials on immediate process, clinical and health system outcomes.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

The search strategy was developed in collaboration with a librarian and systematic searches will be performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO and SPORTDiscus. We will also search trial registries and grey literature through the OpenGrey database. Study selection will include a title and abstract scan and full-text review by two authors. Only randomised controlled trials will be included in this review. Trials must include patients with low back pain or sciatica and investigate educational interventions with at least one of the following contrasts: (1) education alone versus no intervention; (2) education alone versus another intervention; (3) education in addition to another intervention versus the same intervention with no education. Data extraction, risk of bias and grading of the quality of evidence will be performed independently by two reviewers. Risk of bias will be assessed using the PEDro scale, and the quality of evidence will be assessed with the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. A random-effects model will be used for each contrast, and results will be pooled if the participants, interventions, and outcomes are homogeneous. If heterogeneity is high (I2 >75%), we will evaluate the magnitude and direction of the differences in effect sizes across studies to determine if it remains reasonable to pool the results. Analyses of acute and subacute low back pain (less than 12 weeks duration) will be performed separately from chronic low back pain (12 weeks or greater duration). Likewise, analyses of short-term (less than 6 months) and long-term (6 months or greater) follow-up will be performed separately. Subgroup analyses will be performed on non-specific low back pain, sciatica and mixed populations.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethical approval is not required for this review. This study, along with its results, will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Is the Patient Activation Measure a valid measure of osteoarthritis self-management attitudes and capabilities? Results of a Rasch analysis

BACKGROUND

The Patient Activation Measure (PAM-13) was developed using Rasch analysis to assess knowledge, skills and confidence in the management of one's health. Previous studies report positive relationships between PAM-13 scores, self-management behaviours and longitudinal health outcomes in adults with chronic disease. There is little extant measurement property evidence for the use of PAM-13 in specific osteoarthritis (OA) populations. This study tested measurement properties of the PAM-13 in people living with hip and knee OA.

METHODS

Item response frequency analysis was conducted. Rasch analysis evaluated the fit of the PAM-13 data to the Rasch model. Model-data fit was evaluated using infit and outfit statistics; person/item reliability and person separation indices were computed. Unidimensionality was evaluated using Principal Components Analysis of Rasch residuals and the data were assessed for item redundancy. Differential Item Functioning (DIF) examined bias in respondent subgroups and correlations tested relationships between PAM-13 and other patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Two-hundred-and-seventeen PAM-13 surveys were completed; there were no missing responses, floor or ceiling effects. Person and item reliability were acceptable (0.98 and 0.87 respectively) with good separation (person separation index 2.58). Unidimensionality was evaluated, with 49.4% of the variance explained by the first eigenvector. There was evidence of potential local response-dependence. The Rasch fit statistics were acceptable (except for item-2). There were some issues identified with targeting of the PAM-13 items to people with higher ability and the item difficulty order was different to that proposed in original cohorts. Significant DIF was identified for sex and educational level for a small number of items. PAM-13 scores were moderately correlated with depressive symptoms on the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale and Assessment of Quality of Life-6D. There were small correlations between PAM-13 and Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain and activities of daily living scores.

CONCLUSIONS

This study provides some evidence of adequate person and item reliability, unidimensionality, and construct validity to support the use of PAM-13 to measure patient activation in people living with hip and knee OA. Possible limitations regarding targeting, different item difficulty order, DIF and local response dependence should be investigated in future research.

Osteoarthritis: Pathology, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a worldwide endemic and debilitating disease. Previously thought to simply be damaged from "wear and tear," OA is now understood to be a complex interaction of local and systemic factors. This article reviews the pathology, symptoms, diagnosis, and various conservative, surgical, and novel treatments of OA.

Promoting Participation in Physical Activity and Exercise Among People Living with Chronic Pain: A Qualitative Study of Strategies Used by People with Pain and Their Recommendations for Health Care Providers

OBJECTIVE

To explore strategies used by people living with chronic pain when participating in physical activity and exercise and their recommendations for health care providers when promoting participation in physical activity and exercise.

DESIGN

Interpretive description qualitative study.

SETTING

Participants were recruited from primary care sites and a hospital-based chronic pain clinic in Kingston, Ontario, Canada.

SUBJECTS

Adults (>18 years of age) who self-identified as experiencing chronic pain (three months' duration) were interviewed.

METHODS

In-depth semistructured interviews were conducted with participants. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and reviewed for accuracy by the interviewer. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Peer debriefing, reflexivity, and multiple in-person meetings were used to establish trustworthiness.

RESULTS

Sixteen adults (five men, 11 women) with a median age of 53 years were interviewed. Strategies used by people living with chronic pain to participate in physical activity and exercise included 1) finding the motivation, 2) setting up for success, 3) leveraging social support, and 4) managing pain and discomfort during activity. Recommendations for health care providers when promoting participation in physical activity and exercise for people living with chronic pain included 1) the importance of listening, 2) providing tailored advice, 3) being supportive, and 4) making physical activity and exercise programming accessible.

CONCLUSIONS

People living with chronic pain reported using multiple strategies to participate in physical activity and exercise. Recommendations for health care providers centered on the importance of listening and taking a supportive approach when promoting engagement in physical activity and exercise for this population.

Chronic Pain Self-Management Support With Pain Science Education and Exercise (COMMENCE) for People With Chronic Pain and Multiple Comorbidities: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of chronic pain self-management support with pain science education and exercise (COMMENCE) on improving function, pain interference, work status, pain intensity, fatigue, psychological factors associated with pain, health care visits, satisfaction, and perceived change compared with usual care.

DESIGN

Parallel group randomized controlled trial with 1- and 12-week follow-ups.

SETTING

Community health center.

PARTICIPANTS

Adults (N=102) with chronic noncancer pain referred for self-management support. Eighty of 102 participants completed 12-week follow-up assessments. No participants withdrew with adverse events.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were randomized to COMMENCE or usual care.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Primary: Function measured using the Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment-Dysfunction Index. Secondary: Short Musculoskeletal Function Assessment-Bother Index, Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System pain interference, work status, numeric pain, and fatigue rating scales, Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, Pain Self-Efficacy Scale, Neurophysiology of Pain Questionnaire, number of health care visits, satisfaction, and global rating of change.

RESULTS

COMMENCE resulted in greater improvements in function (mean difference [MD] at 12-wk follow-up=-8.0; 95% CI, -14.7 to -1.3), bother with functional difficulties (MD, -12.0; 95% CI, -20.8 to -3.2), pain intensity (MD, -1.0; 95% CI, -2.1 to -0.1), catastrophizing (MD , -8.2; 95% CI, -14.5 to -2.0), self-efficacy (MD, 7.0; 95% CI, 0.8-13.2), knowledge (MD, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.6-3.9), satisfaction (MD, 1.2; 95% CI, 0.7-1.8), and perceived change (MD, 1.4; 95% CI, 0.8-2.1). There were no significant between-group differences in pain interference, work, fatigue, depressive symptoms, or health care visits.

CONCLUSION

COMMENCE is more effective than usual care at improving function, pain, catastrophic thinking, self-efficacy, pain knowledge, satisfaction, and perceived change but not pain interference, work status, fatigue, depressive symptoms, or health care visits.