Innovative research combining psychological and physical approaches has allowed patients
A new treatment calledCognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) was launched in a randomized controlled clinical trial involving almost 500 people suffering from chronic back pain in 20 physical therapy programs. The study results showed that patients who received CPT reported significant improvements in movement and pain that persisted long after therapy. The program included seven individual sessions with specially trained clinicians over 12 weeks and a follow-up visit after six months
CFT developed by Professor PeterO'Sullivan, from Perth's Curtin School of Allied Health in Australia, uses a physical and psychological approach to provide chronic pain sufferers with the tools to confidently manage their condition, particularly through movement exercises that improve the condition.
“The new treatment takes into account individualcharacteristics of a person who lives with chronic back pain. It is carried out under the guidance of a trained physiotherapist. The method differs from traditional, more passive approaches, including massage, spinal manipulation, medication and injections, because it puts the person in charge of their condition, helping them understand the factors contributing to their pain, building control and confidence in their body to return to activities that are important to him,” explains the author of the technique.
He noted that he was very excited whenobserved a noticeable reduction in pain and stress experienced by people living with chronic back pain for up to a year. “Some people we contacted after the study told us they were still reaping the benefits three years later,” added Peter O’Sullivan.
According to a study conductedBy researchers from three universities in Australia, more than 80% of patients who underwent CPT were satisfied with the results, noting the psychological benefits of being able to move with newfound confidence.
The study was published in The Lancet.
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