Making sense of non-specific low back pain: a grounded theory approach
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Making sense of non-specific low back pain using a grounded theory approach
IRAS ID
182457
Contact name
Ben Hodgson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Brighton
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Low back pain (LBP) is a common health condition and a leading cause of disability resulting in significant costs to society. Patients with LBP expect a clear explanation and diagnosis in order to engage with treatment. In the majority of patients it is difficult to identify an anatomical cause for the symptoms resulting in a diagnosis of ‘non-specific LBP’. Previous research suggests that some patients are dissatisfied with the explanations they receive for their back pain, and this can have a negative impact on recovery and outcomes.
This study aims to explore how participants with ‘non-specific LBP’ make sense of their diagnosis. By identifying the process patients go through in relation to their diagnosis the study will assist health professionals in developing more effective ways to communicate with patients in relation to a diagnosis of ‘non-specific LBP’ and ultimately improve outcomes. The study will use a qualitative design using a constructivist grounded theory approach.
Initially, purposive sampling will be used to recruit 6 participants attending an NHS physiotherapy department in the South East. Data will be collected using semi-structured interviews. Each interview will be no longer than 1 hour and participants may be invited for a 2nd interview to explore issues further. Follow up interviews will be conducted face to face, by phone, or skype depending on individual preference. Interviews will be recorded digitally and transcribed for data analysis. Funding for the study including administration costs and travel reimbursement for participants will be covered by the researcher. The study is scheduled for September 2015-September 2016.
REC name
East Midlands - Leicester Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
15/EM/0463
Date of REC Opinion
9 Oct 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion