The General Population\u27s Perception of Factors Associated With Positive or Negative Perceptions of Physical Therapy Care in Those With Low Back Pain

Low back pain (LBP) has a global impact on health and is a substantial contributor to long term disability. The economic burden of LBP is immense and it is advancing annually. Costs attributing to LBP in the United States is about $84.1 to $624.8 billion. Physical therapy is commonly recommended for those with LBP since it is linked to improved clinical outcomes. However, patient perceptions can influence how this treatment approach is perceived. It is unclear if these perceptions can influence outcomes for patients suffering from LBP. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to identify the factors associated with positive or negative perceptions of physical therapy care in those with LBP. This was accomplished by developing and administering a comprehensive Qualtrics survey to participants in the Orlando area. Participants who took the survey were screened for eligibility requirements with exclusion criteria being those from vulnerable populations including pregnant women, minors, prisoners, and any person unable to provide informed consent. Screening, demographic, clinical, and perception questions were embedded within the online survey. Those who participated had to be 18 years or older, located within the Orlando area, able to provide informed consent, and speak English. Results from the data identified the five top key indicators which included clear explanation by the physical therapist on the treatment plan, how clear the physical therapist is in explaining the problem, friendliness of the physical therapist, patients perceive physical therapy is very effective in treatment of knee, and patients perceive physical therapy is very effective in treatment of lower back