Standardized screening of cognitive and affective tendencies in persons with low back pain: A knowledge translation project.

Background: The use of screening questionnaires (SQ) to evaluate affective or cognitive tendencies (CAT) in persons with low back pain (LBP) is recommended by clinical practice guidelines (CPG) yet few physical therapists (PTs) have adopted these recommendations.

Objective: To develop and implement a tailored knowledge translation (KT) intervention in an outpatient rehabilitation practice to facilitate the uptake of SQ for CAT in persons with LBP.

Methods: In a mixed-methods study, using the knowledge to action framework, PTs (n = 12) collaborated with research clinicians to improve the use of three SQ: 1) Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders for Depressive Symptoms; 2) Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire; and 3) Pain Catastrophizing Scale. Success of the intervention was measured through questionnaires, focus groups and chart audit.

Results: A multimodal intervention to overcome specific identified barriers (i.e. time, forgetfulness, and lack of knowledge) was implemented. There was a 10% increase in the use of at least one SQ. PTs reported increased knowledge and use of the SQ but reported time and lack of confidence as barriers to implementation.

Conclusion: It was concluded that SQ for CAT can be successfully implemented; however, PTs felt unprepared to use the screening results to evaluate persons with CAT and more extensive training is recommended to change this practice pattern.