The Attitudinal Impact of Health Care Providers and Patients on Outcomes with Chronic Back Pain

Authors

Bethany Anne Kramer, University of Lunchburg, Virginia DMScFollow

Specialty

Neurosurgery/Spinal Pain

Advisor

Dr Nancy Reid

Abstract

Back pain is common and some sufferers consult General Practictioners, yet many sufferers develop persistent problems. Chronic back pain (CBP) in particular is recognized as a major public health problem, producing a significant economic and social burden. Moreover, this condition not only affects the patient but it also affects his/her family and social circle. Both patient and provider knowledge and beliefs about pain play a role in pain perception, function, and response to treatment. Therefore, the patient–provider relationship is an important concept, especially in primary care, as it relates to achieving optimal health outcomes. However, it is also a complex topic with connotative meaning. Acknowledgement and understanding of the multifaceted usefulness of a good provider-patient relationship can help clinicians focus on the interrelationships between relational features such as trust, empathy, and communication; and how these features complement each other to shape specific outcomes in back pain.

Recommended Citation

Kramer BA. The Attitudinal Impact of Health Care Providers and Patients on Outcomes with Chronic Back Pain. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2019; 1(2).