Socioanthropological contributions to physical therapy in chronic back pain

Abstract

Introduction: The high prevalence of chronic back pain is related to biopsychosocial factors. In this respect, pain is understood as a multifactorial phenomenon made unique by the previous ideas of each individual. Thus, the present study aimed Objective: To understand the experience of chronic back pain and the effectiveness of physiotherapeutic approaches to support new care strategies. Methods: In terms of qualitative research, a comprehensive approach was adopted using the theoretical and conceptual framework developed in the fields of anthropology and health. The sample consisted of 13 women residing in the municipality of Várzea Grande, Mato Grosso state (MT), Brazil, over 40 years old, homemakers, diagnosed with chronic back pain, treated at the Univag clinical school and who had completed physiotherapy more than six months previously. Results: Data analysis indicated that more traditional forms of outpatient physiotherapy prompted a significant improvement in chronic back pain. However, because the condition is chronic, all patients relapsed and their pain and dysfunctional conditions returned. Conclusion: Multiple factors influence the experience of chronic back pain and the constant self-management required forms a circular relationship between objective and subjective elements. On the other hand, by disregarding these elements, physiotherapeutic approaches provide predominantly technical and scientific care far removed from the experience of the affected subject. In this respect, the chronic condition requires long-term care, whereby the focus should shift from the pursuit of a cure to the care model.