Cognitive functional therapy for lower back pain: A meta-analytical assessment of pain and disability outcomes in randomized controlled trials

Abstract

Background

Cognitive functional therapy (CFT) aims to address low back pain (LBP) comprehensively by considering physical, psychological, and social factors.

Objective

The objective was to evaluate the effectiveness of CFT in reducing pain and disability in individuals with LBP over various time intervals.

Method

A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effects of CFT on LBP.

Results

In this study, 1510 records were initially identified, and 7 studies were included in the analysis. Disability scores were significantly reduced after CFT had been applied for 6 to 8 weeks (SMD $=$ $-$ 0.46, 95% CI [ $-$ 0.74, $-$ 0.19]), 12 weeks to 3 months (SMD $=$ $-$ 0.54, 95% CI [ $-$ 0.72, $-$ 0.36]), 6 months (MD $=$ $-$ 5.82, 95% CI [ $-$ 9.82, $-$ 1.82]), and 12 months (SMD  $=$ $-$ 0.4, 95% CI [ $-$ 0.55, $-$ 0.26]). There were also significant reductions in pain scores observed after 12 weeks to 3 months (SMD  $=$ $-$ 0.49, 95% CI [ $-$ 0.68, $-$ 0.3]), 6 months (MD $=$ $-$ 0.75, 95% CI [ $-$ 1.5, $-$ 0.0001]), and 12 months (SMD $=$ $-$ 0.27, 95% CI [ $-$ 0.42, $-$ 0.12]).

Conclusion

CFT showed potential for improving disability scores for individuals with LBP across various time intervals. However, its impacts on pain scores varied.