Alhowimel A, Alodaibi F, Alotaibi M, Alamam D, Fritz J. Comparison of attitudes and beliefs of physical therapists and primary care physicians regarding low back pain management: A cross-sectional study.
J Back Musculoskelet Rehabil 2022;
35:803-809. [PMID:
34657870 PMCID:
PMC9398080 DOI:
10.3233/bmr-200295]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND
The first-line contact for patients seeking care for low back pain (LBP) can potentially change the disease course. The beliefs and attitudes of healthcare providers (HCPs) can influence LBP management. Although referring patients with LBP to physical therapy is common, the first-line contact for patients with LBP in Saudi Arabia is the primary care physician (PCP). Physical therapy will soon be integrated into primary care; therefore, it is rational to compare physical therapists' (PTs) beliefs and attitudes regarding LBP with those of PCPs.
OBJECTIVE
We compared PCPs' and PTs' attitudes and beliefs regarding LBP management.
METHODS
We employed a cross-sectional, voluntary response sample research design using the Pain Attitudes and Beliefs Scale (PABS). Participants were PTs and PCPs practicing in Saudi Arabia.
RESULTS
In total, 153 participants completed the PABS (111 PTs and 52 PCPs). PCPs demonstrated significantly higher PABS biomedical subscale scores than did the PTs.
CONCLUSIONS
HCPs in Saudi Arabia should receive additional training to adopt a biopsychosocial approach to managing LBP. In this study, the HCPs' treatment recommendations may not correspond with contemporary clinical guidelines. Research to facilitate the implementation of optimal professional education and training to adopt a biopsychosocial approach is an urgent priority.
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