First lifetime back pain and psychiatry treatment: psychological factors and recovery in compensated workers

The role of psychological factors in recovery from first lifetime low back pain (LBP) was explored in this study. Consecutive clients from one physiatry clinic in Montreal who had LBP of less than 3 months' duration, were on sick leave and receiving workers' compensation benefits, and reported the current event as first lifetime LBP were enrolled. Psychological factors that fluctuate with current events (Psychiatric Symptom Index) and remain stable over time (General Well Being Scale) were assessed. Outcomes were late return to work (31 days) and 1 year incidence of compensated recurrence. Results from two multivariate models indicated lower psychological distress predicted late return to work, and higher well being, higher aggressiveness, and lower anxiety predicted compensated recurrence. Researchers concluded psychological factors do not impact clients with all types of LBP in the same way. For individuals lacking prior LBP experience, better psychological functioning increased lengthy work absence. Thus, awareness of the clients' psychological profiles and previous LBP experiences may benefit recovery.