Adaptive Equipment: Its Effectiveness for People with Chronic Lower Back Pain

Abstract

People with chronic lower back pain frequently have difficulty independently performing daily living tasks. The occupational therapist prescribes assistive devices and adaptive equipment to enhance independent performance of activities of daily living. This study evaluated the effectiveness of nine types of adaptive equipment prescribed for chronic lower back pain patients seen at a major hospital. Equipment effectiveness was evaluated using frequency of use and perceived benefit as the dependent measures. Forty subjects responded to a mailed questionnaire. Of the 120 pieces of equipment in possession, 87.5% were in use and 85% were considered to be of some benefit. The number of occupational therapy sessions was significantly associated with an increased frequency of use and perceived benefit of the adaptive equipment (p < .05).