Patients' experiences of living with persistent back pain

Abstract

This Masterclass discusses findings from a growing body of qualitative research studies that have investigated the subjective experience of having persistent non-malignant low back pain. These studies have found that people with experience changes in self image, personal relationships and life roles. They have also reported on how subjectivity affects the therapeutic relationship, what patients have found helpful in dealing with healthcare professionals, and what it is like to go through a healthcare system for a pain that may not be curable or even diagnosable. The findings are of great importance for clinicians who wish to provide person centred care for patients with persistent low back pain, so this Masterclass ends with key lessons for practitioners.