Physical activity for chronic back pain: qualitative interview study with patients and GPs in German primary care

• DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2022.0215
• Publication Date: 2023-02-01T15:40:38Z
• Authors: Nicole Lindner; Nele Kornder; Julia Heisig; Veronika van der ...; Annika Viniol
• Keywords: Male; Physician-Patient Relations; Primary Health Care; General Practitioners; Attitude of Health Personnel; Back Pain; Research; Humans; Female; Exercise; Qualitative Research; 3. Good health

Chronic back pain (CBP) is common among patients in primary care and associated with significant personal socioeconomic burden. Research has shown that physical activity (PA) one of the most effective therapies to reduce pain; however, for GPs it remains challenging advise encourage individuals CBP exercise regularly.To provide insight into views experiences PA CBP, along those GPs, reveal facilitators barriers engaging in, maintaining, PA.Qualitative semi-structured interviews recruited via local research practice network (Famprax) Hessen, western-central Germany between June December 2021.Interviews were coded separately by consensus analysed thematically. Findings two groups (GPs CBP) compared summarised.A total 14 (n = 9 females n 5 males) 12 7 interviewed. Opinions similar both within across GP patient groups. Interviewees expressed their on internal external PA, provided strategies address these concrete recommendations increase PA. This study revealed a conflicting doctor-patient relationship ranging from paternalistic, partnership based, service provision, which could lead negative perceptions sides, such as frustration stigma.To best authors' knowledge, this first qualitative exploring opinion experience parallel. reveals complex doctor- provides an important motivation for, adherence to, CBP.