Investigation of the relationship between psychosocial characteristics with pain and functional status of individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain

Our study was conducted to investigate the relationship between psychosocial characteristics with pain and functional status of individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. Ninety individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain between the ages of 18-65 were included in the study. Individuals' anxiety level was assessed by State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, depression level by Beck Depression Inventory. Fear of movement and quality of life were evaluated by Tampa Kinesiophobia Scale and Nottingham Health Profile. Pain and functional status were evaluated using Visual Analogue Scale and Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale. The data obtained were analyzed by appropriate statistical methods. The mean age of the participants was 49.32±13.88 years. There was a weak relationship between state anxiety level with pain at rest and at night (respectively rho=0.220, rho=0.270; p<0.05). There was no relationship between state anxiety with pain severity at activity and functional status (p>0.05). Fear of movement was moderately associated with functional status (rho=0.369; p<0.05), but not with pain severity (p>0.05). There was no relationship between depression and trait anxiety with pain severity and functional status (p>0.05). Nottingham Health Profile total score and some sub-parameters were associated with both pain intensity and functional status at different levels (rho=0.274, rho=0.243, rho=0.231, rho=0.545; p<0.05). Our study shows that state anxiety is one of the factors that should be considered in the treatment process of individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. Pain is one of the factors adversely affecting quality of life in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain and decreases quality of life by limiting movements in daily activities. Individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain and high fear of movement have a higher risk of developing functional disability. This leads to low perception of quality of life. Accordingly, a holistic assessment including psychosocial factors is important in determining the needs of individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain.