Communication between patients and therapists in non-specific low back pain

• Grant number: 11/12005-1
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: February 01, 2012
• End date: January 31, 2014
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy
• Principal Investigator: Rúben de Faria Negrão Filho
• Grantee: Rúben de Faria Negrão Filho
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia (FCT). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Presidente Prudente. Presidente Prudente , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Kathryn Refshauge ; Manuela Loureiro Ferreira ; Paulo Henrique Ferreira ; Rafael Zambelli de Almeida Pinto ; Vinicius Cunha Oliveira

Abstract

We will conduct an observational study to investigate whether specific communication factors between patients with non-specific low back pain (LBP) and their physiotherapists predict the clinical outcomes of pain, disability and function as well as therapeutic alliance and patients' satisfaction. To evaluate the quality of communication, we will videotape the first encounter between patients with LBP and physiotherapists. From review of the videotape, verbal and nonverbal communication factors used during the interaction will be coded using the Verona classification system. Tools with good psychometric properties will be used to measure pain, disability and function, therapeutic alliance and patient satisfaction. Regression analysis will be used to investigate possible associations between communication factors and patients' outcomes. (AU)