Implementing a Psychology and Physiotherapy Pain Management Back programme within a Spinal Surgical Service: A Service Improvement Project.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59210/h4v16g24Abstract
Background: The backpack programme is a psychology and physiotherapy pain management programme aimed at reducing psychosocial risk factors associated with back pain. Psychosocial risk factors have been shown to negatively influence pain experience, thus impacting on function and disability. Evidence has shown that targeting modifiable risk factors through early identification can improve outcomes. Providing pain management interventions within the spinal surgical service may support people in the long-term management of their condition.
Aim: To assess the feasibility and the acceptability of the backpack pain management programme in the spinal surgical service to inform service provision.
Method: Feasibility was assessed through recruitment rate and retention as well as patient reported outcome measures pre- and post-group. Acceptability was assessed by patient experience questionnaires post-programme and thematic content analysis of qualitative audio interviews.
Setting: The intervention took place in a pain management department at North Bristol NHS Trust.
Results: The recruitment rate was initially slower than anticipated. 14 patients were referred by spinal consultants over a 5-month period and of those assessed, 11 were invited to the programme. Feasibility showed recruitment issues and dropouts at the start of the intervention. However, retention for group starters was good and outcome measures reflected improvements in function, confidence and quality of life. Emergent themes were understanding the condition, facilitating peer support and self-empowerment. For those completing the course, high acceptability and patient satisfaction was shown.
Conclusion: The delivery of this intervention is feasible and acceptable for the attendees in this project, although dropout rates and recruitment issues need to be addressed in future service provision. Screening patients for psychosocial risk factors on initial consultation within spinal surgical services may allow stratification for the level of care provided. This would enable those who would benefit from a pain management approach to have support earlier in the pathway, thus impacting on longer term outcomes and improving quality care for patients.
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