Many of the theories and research evidence utilised by manual/musculoskeletal therapists are underpinned by biomechanical and biomedical assumptions regarding pain and disability, and it can be challenging (and confusing!) for practitioners to integrate these models with a contemporary evidence-informed BPS approach. Drawing upon the latest research from the fields of psychology of back pain, communication and therapeutic movement, the course will introduce an evidence-based framework for the application and integration of manual therapy skills, communication strategies and clinical reasoning.
Osteopathic practice standards covered in this course
Communication and patient partnership A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A7
Knowledge, skills and performance B1, B4
Safety and quality in practice C1, C6
Professionalism D1, D3, D6
The entire course is centred around communication; this can be separated into diagnostic communication, therapeutic communication and the ethics around communication.
Learning objectives
- Understand the contemporary theory of evidence-based practice as it applies to MSK and osteopathy.
- Develop a critical awareness of the application of the biomedical and biopsychosocial model to the management of low back pain.
- Review theoretical and research literature on psychological factors relevant to back pain (eg fear-avoidance, pain-related fear, catastrophizing, self-efficacy, pain beliefs), and how language can influence these.
- Gain a working knowledge of the importance of language when interacting with patients and provide strategies to use purposeful language to frame manual/physical assessment and treatment.
- Develop an awareness of how explanations can negatively or positively impact the multidimensional nature of back pain and recovery.
- Offer ways to apply manual therapy skills to help re-frame patients’ experiences and beliefs of back pain.
- Develop strategies to communicate helpful messages regarding low back pain which can contribute to enhanced patient engagement.
Case-based discussion
The case revolves around a fictitious patient (‘John’) who is experiencing cLBP. Participants are invited to consider the case and critically reflect on their communication with ‘John’ in relation to their management of his problem and within the context of a therapeutic alliance.