A Qualitative Investigation of the Psychosocial Impact of Chronic Low Back Pain in Ghana
Josephine Ahenkorah Ampiaha b✉, Fiona Moffatta, Claire J. Divera, Paapa Kwesi Ampiaha
- aDepartment of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
- bDivision of Physiotherapy, Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation, London South Bank University, London, UK
- ✉Corresponding author
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a global health concern associated with multidimensional/biopsychosocial levels of affectation in developed countries, with holistic management requiring consideration of these factors. There has been minimal research exploring the psychosocial impact of CLBP, and the factors influencing it, in African contexts, with none in Ghana. OBJECTIVES: To explore the psychosocial impact of CLBP among patients with CLBP in Ghana. DESIGN: Qualitative study using individual semistructured face-to-face interviews, underpinned by Straussian grounded theory principles and critical realist philosophy. PARTICIPANTS: Thirty patients with CLBP attending physiotherapy at two hospitals in Ghana. RESULTS: Five categories: loss of self and roles, emotional distress, fear, stigmatisation and marginalisation, financial burden, and social support and three mechanisms: acquired biomedical/mechanical beliefs from healthcare professionals (HCPs), sociocultural beliefs and the socioeconomic impact of CLBP were derived. CONCLUSION: CLBP adversely affects multidimensional/biopsychosocial aspects of individuals experiencing CLBP in Ghana. This delineates the need for a biopsychosocial approach to care. There is the need for HCPs in Ghana to reassess current CLBP management strategies to address the influence of adverse HCPs biomedical inclinations on patients' psychosocial consequences. Population-based education strategies and consideration of formal support systems for persons with disabling CLBP may also be beneficial.
TL;DRThere is the need for HCPs in Ghana to reassess current CLBP management strategies to address the influence of adverse HCPS biomedical inclinations on patients’ psychosocial consequences. (Semantic Scholar)