The Role of Physiotherapists in Promoting Health for Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain in the Community: A Literature Review and Guidelines Presentation
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Abstract
This article overviews the crucial role of physical therapists in health promotion for individuals with chronic low back pain (CLBP) in community settings. It emphasizes CLBP as a complex biopsychosocial condition, not merely a physical ailment. Physical therapists are therefore ideally positioned as key personnel within primary healthcare to effectively implement health promotion principles in communities. Their essential roles include holistic assessment, education and awareness-raising, designing accessible and context-appropriate exercise programs, fostering self-management skills, coordinating with community stakeholders, and leveraging technology to enhance service accessibility. Although implementation faces several challenges, such as shortages in personnel, resources, and funding, as well as policy limitations and community attitudes, this article proposes concrete policy recommendations, curriculum development, practical guidelines for physical therapists in community work, and areas for further research to overcome these barriers. Therefore, supporting the role of physical therapists in communities will contribute to improving the quality of life for CLBP patients and fostering sustainable well-being within society.
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