Journal CME, July 2023: Treatment preference changes after exposure to treatmentin adults with chronic low back pain-Journal CME, July 2023: Treatment preference changes after exposure to treatment in adults with chronic low back pain

Journal CME, July 2023: Treatment preference changes after exposure to treatment in adults with chronic low back pain

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The study aimed to examine how treatment preferences in adults with chronic low back pain (CLBP) change after exposure to motor skill training (MST) and strength and flexibility exercise (SFE). A total of 83 participants from a randomized clinical trial underwent either MST or SFE over six weekly sessions. The participants completed a treatment preference assessment (TPA) before treatment and again 12 months post-treatment, rating each treatment on attributes like effectiveness, acceptability, suitability, and convenience.<br /><br />Key findings:<br />1. Participants who received MST rated their preference for MST higher 12 months post-treatment, while those who received SFE rated their preference lower.<br />2. Smaller improvements or worsening in pain were linked to reduced preference ratings in the SFE group, while MST preference increased irrespective of pain changes.<br />3. Changes in disability did not significantly affect preference ratings.<br /><br />The results highlight that treatment preferences are dynamic and influenced by exposure to the treatment itself. MST, a less familiar treatment, saw increased acceptance post-exposure, potentially due to improved understanding. In contrast, SFE, although initially preferred, saw a decline in preference, possibly due to unmet expectations in pain relief.<br /><br />The study underlines the importance of reassessing treatment preferences throughout the treatment process, as these preferences can significantly influence treatment outcomes and patient engagement. This dynamic assessment could help tailor therapies more effectively to individual needs and preferences, enhancing the overall treatment experience for patients with CLBP. The findings encourage clinicians to educate patients about treatment rationales and consider revisiting preferences periodically to ensure alignment and satisfaction.

Keywords

chronic low back pain

treatment preferences

motor skill training

strength and flexibility exercise

randomized clinical trial

treatment preference assessment

pain relief

disability changes

patient engagement

treatment outcomes