Exploring the behaviours involved in Low back MRI reporting v1

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Evaluating Musculoskeletal imaging communication interventions using behavioural science: A Scoping Review using the COM-B Model

• IRAS ID

  324026

• Contact name

  Edward Kirby

• Contact email

  edwardkirby@nhs.net

• Sponsor organisation

  University of Essex

• Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier

  https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/TVJSC, OSF registration

• Duration of Study in the UK

  0 years, 11 months, 30 days

• Research summary

  What research question is being addressed?
  This study explores the communication of low back MRI findings. Misinterpretation of findings like disc bulges or degeneration often leads patients and healthcare providers to incorrectly associate these changes with pain, increasing anxiety and influencing outcomes. This study will identify current communication behaviours using questionnaires, interviews and focus groups. This information will then be used to design an intervention to address these behaviours.

  What area is being studied?
  The study focuses on the communication of low back MRI results in adults with low back pain

  Who would be eligible?
  Eligible participants include adults aged 18 or older who have experienced low back pain and are due to attend or have undergone an MRI scan in the past year, as well as healthcare professionals involved in reporting or discussing MRI results.

  Where will the study be conducted?
  The study will be conducted across NHS healthcare providers within the East of England. Recruitment will involve identification of participants attending MRI units for low back MRI scans, patients on MRI waiting lists and patients consulting healthcare providers about low back pain who are due to have or have had a low back MRI scan.

  Study duration and participant involvement
  The study will run for 12 months. Participants will chose whether they wish to particpate in questionnaires and or Interviews/Focus groups and be involved only for the duration of these questionnaires and/or interviews and focus groups. They will provide feedback on their experiences of MRI communication, including its impact on beliefs, understanding, and recovery.

• REC name

  North West - Greater Manchester West Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  25/NW/0189

• Date of REC Opinion

  1 Aug 2025

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion