What are Brazilian orthopaedists' views on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with chronic nonspecific low back pain? A qualitative investigation.

Abstract

Background: Orthopaedists are often the first point of contact for patients who present with low back pain (LBP) and chronic LBP in Brazil.

Aim: To explore the views of orthopaedists on therapeutic approaches for chronic non-specific low back pain (CNLBP) with a view to gain insights into aspects of clinical practice considered important to them.

Methods: A qualitative design underpinned by interpretivism was employed. Participants were (n = 13) orthopaedists with experience in treating patients with CNLBP. Following the pilot interviews, semi-structured interviews were conducted, audio-recorded, transcribed and de-identified. Interview data were thematically analysed.

Results: Four themes were identified. (1) Biophysical aspects are important and predominate, but sometimes their relevance can be unclear; (2) Psychosocial aspects and lifestyle factors influence the therapeutic approach; (3) Treatment of CNLBP - including medication, physical activity, surgery and other invasive procedures and other therapeutic modalities; and (4) Nuances of clinical practice - "it goes beyond medicine".

Conclusion: Brazilian orthopaedists value identifying the biophysical cause(s) of chronic low back pain. Psychological factors were often discussed secondary to biophysical aspects, whereas social aspects were rarely mentioned. Orthopaedists highlighted their difficulties in navigating patients' emotions and reassuring patients without referrals to imaging tests. Orthopaedists may benefit from training that targets communication and other relational aspects of care in order to work with people who present with CNLBP.