Dropout from treatment for chronic low-back pain

Chronic low-back pain is a common clinical complaint, and patient dropout can be a major complication to treatment. The authors examined the variables predicting dropout from a 12-week outpatient clinical trial on the treatment of chronic low-back pain. Findings underscore the importance of carefully evaluating the patient's pain severity, attitudes about pain symptoms, and expectations and goals for treatment. Attempts should be made to correct misconceptions and unrealistic expectations regarding the nature of the pain condition, treatment options, likely outcomes, the role of self-regulation training, and family support.