Efficacy of psychological interventions on pain coping strategies in orthopedic rehabilitation of chronic low back pain

Background Within an intervention study in chronic low back pain patients treated in medical inpatient rehabilitation, a multimodal intervention program was implemented at a rehabilitation clinic (sponsored by VDR, 02508). The aim of the treatment was to reduce dysfunctional, particularly suppressive pain coping patterns. Methods The study was aimed as a controlled study. Data were collected before and after rehabilitation as well as follow-up. 404 persons were included. Pain-related cognitions and coping behaviour were analysed by means of Kiel Pain Inventory. Results The differences between groups were greater in the cognitive and emotional scales than in the behavior scales. Behavioral changes of the suppressive pain coping patterns in the intervention group appeared temporally delayed. Discussion The effectivity of inpatient rehabilitation can be increased and stabilised up to 0,2 difference of effect size compared to control group by a more specific intensive and interdisciplinary therapy.