The Long Term Effects of Online Therapeutic Neuroscience Education in Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain

This study aims to evaluate the effects of online Therapeutic Neuroscience Education (TNE) combined with a 6-week conventional physiotherapy program on pain, disability, kinesiophobia, functionality, treatment expectations, and satisfaction in individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP). The goal is to improve participants' understanding of chronic pain, reduce fear and avoidance behaviors, enhance movement and functionality, and increase treatment satisfaction. The study also seeks to provide a lasting educational resource.

TNE focuses on educating patients about pain neurophysiology, aiming to reduce pain, improve function, and shift perceptions about pain through interactive sessions involving diagrams, metaphors, and examples. Despite evidence supporting TNE's effectiveness for chronic pain conditions, no studies have evaluated its online application or long-term effects.

The study will include 60 volunteers with CLBP (ages 20-60), randomized into two groups: one receiving conventional physiotherapy and online TNE, and the other receiving conventional treatment alone. The TNE group will participate in six weekly 45-minute online sessions, covering topics like pain neurophysiology, biopsychosocial factors, and pain coping strategies, without addressing anatomical or emotional aspects.

Educational materials, including resources adapted from "Why You Hurt" will be presented to the TNE group. Conventional physiotherapy includes hot packs, ultrasound, TENS, and home exercises for both groups.

Clinical outcomes will be assessed by a blinded researcher at multiple time points using tools such as pain and disability scales, kinesiophobia measures, functional tests, and questionnaires on treatment expectations and satisfaction. The study is significant for its innovative approach in examining the clinical and long-term effectiveness of online TNE as part of CLBP management.