Background
Multidisciplinary rehabilitation programmes have been successfully advocated for chronic low back pain.
Aim
The aim of the study was to establish the functional and vocational outcome of a 3-week functional restoration programme.
Level of evidence
IV, Uncontrolled clinical series.
Methods
One hundred and eighteen chronic low back pain patients underwent a 100-h programme consisting of back exercises, hydrotherapy, gymnasium work education and cognitive behavioural therapy.
Outcome measures
Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), Roland Morris (RM), ‘patient global assessment tool’ and work status scores were completed pre-programme and at least 1 year post programme.
Results
The ODI score improved by 15.6% (95% CI 11.8–19.4) and RM score by 4.6 points (95% CI 3.6–5.6). The proportion of patients who were seriously affected in the workplace had dropped from 59 to 22%. More than 85% of patients were satisfied with the outcome.
Conclusion
Functional restoration programme improves the functional activity and vocational status of patients with chronic low back pain.
