Profile of Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain Waiting for Physiotherapy in Secondary Health Care: A Cross-Sectional Study.

BACKGROUND

Chronic musculoskeletal pain (CMP) is a major cause of disability, with biopsychosocial effects that may be worsened by long waiting times for care.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to describe the profile of patients with CMP on the waiting list for physiotherapy.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an online survey distributed via telephone. Participants' information was obtained from the Municipal Health Department. The survey assessed data on clinical, physical and psychosocial characteristics.

RESULTS

Overall, we contacted 1208 individuals, and 134 completed the survey. The most common pain sites were the right shoulder (44.0%), lower back (42.5%), right hand (38.8) and right knee (38.8). Nearly half of the participants reported pain in 4 or more pain sites in the last seven days (49.3%) and use of antidepressants (48.5%) or analgesics (45.5%). Symptoms of anxiety and depression were present in 45.5% and 35.8% of participants, respectively. One out of five participants reported being unable to work in the last 30 days due to their health conditions. Only 23.9% had previously received physiotherapy care, and among these, 68.7% waited one year or longer for treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients on the waiting list for physiotherapy commonly report pain, psychosocial symptoms and functional disability. Strategies to improve timely access for physiotherapy are needed to reduce the burden of CMP.