HIGHLIGHTS
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After starting to exercise, pain can increase in the first few weeks.
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The perception of increased pain can make it difficult to adhere to physical exercise
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The physical exercise practice is not always enough to relieve the pain.
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Improved functionality and reduced pain were observed in the long term.
ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:
Physical exercise is recommended by the guidelines for the treatment of chronic low back pain, but the patients’ perspective on this therapeutic modality is little explored. The aim of this study was to investigate the perception of patients with chronic low back pain about physical exercise for symptom control.
METHODS:
This is a descriptive qualitative study, which investigated people with chronic low back pain on the waiting list for Physiotherapy outpatient clinic. Data was collected through individual, semi-structured interviews. The interviews were conducted online, investigating the perception of memory from previous experiences of exercise. Thematic content analysis was used to analyze the data.
RESULTS:
Fourteen adults (10 women and 4 men) were interviewed. The data was categorized into three moments: (1) perceptions during exercise, (2) perceptions after exercise, and (3) long-term perceptions. The perceptions of pain and discomfort that occur at the beginning of any type of exercise or physical activity usually disappear in the first few weeks, however, when they are not well tolerated, they can lead to withdrawal or discontinuing of the practice. Although the majority reported pain relief, a feeling of relaxation and ease in performing functional activities, in the period immediately after exercise some participants noticed exacerbation of the pain and fear of worsening the condition. In the long term, the majority saw benefits (reduction in pain intensity, return to activities and reduced need for painkillers), but for some participants exercise alone does not seem to be enough to reduce pain.
CONCLUSION:
People with chronic low back pain can have varying perceptions and results in relation to exercise.
Keywords:
Chronic low back pain; Chronic pain; Patient perception; Physical exercise; Qualitative research