From: SpineJournal.com, April, 2004

A recent study conducted in the UK examined the pain beliefs of physiotherapists and whether they influence their behavior during therapeutic encounters with patients. The study intended to highlight the nature of their pain beliefs and the role said beliefs played within physiotherapists’ management of chronic low back pain.

Six physiotherapists were interviewed and “observations at designated stages throughout therapeutic encounters with their patients” were done. 12 patients (2 for each physiotherapist) were involved in the study.

A number of “pain beliefs” were established, including the beliefs regarding the knowledge needed to manage chronic low back pain, beliefs regarding the clinical characteristics of patients with chronic low back pain physiotherapists considered good to treat and those who were difficult to treat, and the pain beliefs within the therapeutic encounter.

In conclusion, the study suggested that “in order to maximize the rehabilitation potential of patients with chronic low back pain, physiotherapists need to be aware that their pain beliefs may influence their management of these patients.”