Fysioterapeuten (Jan 2021)
Cognitive Functional Therapy as an Approach for Physiotherapists in the Management of Persistent Musculoskeletal Pain
Abstract
Introduction: There is a high prevalence of persistent musculoskeletal pain in the population and as a result many seek physiotherapy. Recommendations from updated guidelines and knowledge about the complexity of pain highlights a need for patient-centered, biopsychosocial approaches that facilitates self-management. The purpose of this study is to map Cognitive Functional Therapy as an approach for physiotherapists in the management of persistent musculoskeletal pain. Main Part: A systematic search for relevant articles was conducted in EMBASE, CINAHL, SCOPUS, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and AMED in week 41, 2019. Ten articles were included. Cognitive Functional Therapy starts with an interview and assessment where relevant biopsychosocial factors for pain and disability are identified. The intervention consists of three main components: “making sense of pain”, “exposure with control”, and “lifestyle change”. These aim to address identified factors for pain and disability. The goal is to reduce disability by improving the individual’s ability to self-manage through an individualized management plan. Summary: Cognitive Functional Therapy is an evidence-based, biopsychosocial approach that facilitates self-management of persistent musculoskeletal pain.
