Evaluation of a group pain education and exercise program for people with persistent low back pain that includes expert patient peers as mentors. A qualitative analysis of patient experiences with the UPLIFT program.

BACKGROUND

Group programs for people with persistent pain are becoming more common, yet there is limited understanding of patients' experiences and perspectives with this approach.

OBJECTIVES

To explore patients' views in receiving treatment for low back pain (LBP) in a group setting, characterised by facilitated collaborative learning and discovery in a trusting environment, with expert patient peers as mentors.

DESIGN

Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews.

METHODS

We interviewed fifteen patients who participated in the UPLIFT program, a five-session group pain education and exercise program for people challenged by persistent LBP. Questions encompassed overall program experience, group setting and size, role of expert patient peers, delivery style and content (including importance, relevance, usefulness and novelty). We analysed the interviews using reflexive thematic analysis.

RESULTS

Overall, participants had a positive experience with the UPLIFT program. The group format (optimally 6-10 people) and inclusion of expert patient peers were seen as conducive for success, as participants felt validated and safe, and valued sharing stories and learning from peers in a supportive setting. The content was seen as more positive and more holistic than previous experiences with LBP education. Irrespective of the varying levels of content people could recall, participants felt more in control and more positive following the UPLIFT program.

CONCLUSIONS

Both the experience of attending group sessions and the content of the education were important. Further research on contextual factors of group interventions may improve understanding of the mechanisms of these effects, potentially further improving future delivery.