Perspectives of Patients from Low Socio-Economic Status in India toward Physiotherapy Management for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

Abstract

Chronic pain not only increases the morbidity but also affects the life of the patient to a large extent. Patients from lower socio-economic status tend to use the preventive and curative health services less, thus making them prone to chronicity of conditions, increasing the economic burden on an already overwhelmed health care system. The aim of this study was to primarily learn about the perspectives of the patients belonging to low-socio economic status towards physiotherapy treatment recommended for their chronic musculoskeletal pain, and secondarily, identify gaps and suggest solutions to improve patient satisfaction. The study was completed on 79 subjects. Patients diagnosed with chronic disabling pain of musculoskeletal origin perceived electrotherapy as the prime cause of relief of their symptoms. There was a mixed reaction about the importance of exercise therapy. Better communication between the Physiotherapist and the attending Physiotherapy students with the patients about the beneficial effects of exercise therapy needs to be established. An interdisciplinary approach by a team consisting of musculoskeletal/orthopedic experts (physicians/surgeons), physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychiatrists and medical social workers could help these patients in attaining better relief of their aches and pains and also higher levels of satisfaction with the treatment.

Keywords: Rehabilitation, India, chronic pain, exercise therapy, electrotherapy