Date of Award

5-1-2023

Degree Type

DPT Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Advisor

Bryan Boyea

Abstract

Background: Physical therapy is a successful treatment option for non-specific chronic low back pain (NCLBP). Telehealth physical therapy (TPT) is a beneficial treatment option for various musculoskeletal conditions, but its effectiveness in treating NCLBP remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of TPT compared to in-person physical therapy (IPT) on pain and disability in patients with NCLBP.

Methods: Data were extracted from electronic medical records of adults with NCLBP who received care between June 1, 2020 and September 30, 2021. Patients included males or females who were 18 years or older, had NCLBP, and received IPT or TPT. Pain and disability were assessed using the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Modified Oswestry Disability Index (MODI), respectively. Statistical analysis of the data was performed to determine within and between group differences in pain and disability.

Results: There were no significant differences in pain or function between groups at discharge. Pain decreased significantly in both groups at discharge (TPT: -3.18; IPT: -2.75). Disability did not significantly change in either group, but there was a trend that disability at discharge lessened in the TPT group (p=0.53).

Conclusion: In patients with NCLBP, TPT and IPT resulted in similar reductions in pain and disability. Further research with larger sample sizes should investigate IPT and TPT in treating NCLBP to truly identify if there is one mode that is more effective.

Impact Statement: TPT is a viable alternative to IPT in patients with NCLBP resulting in similar reductions in pain and disability. However, variables unaccounted for in this study such as, lack of homogeneity in our chronic LBP criteria and unstandardized physical therapy treatment, may limit the effectiveness of this form of care.

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