title: Best candidates for cognitive treatment of illness perceptions in chronic low back pain: results of a theory-driven predictor study.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The aim of this study was to identify treatment-specific predictors of the effectiveness of a method of evidence-based treatment: cognitive treatment of illness perceptions. This study focuses on what treatment works for whom, whereas most prognostic studies focusing on chronic non-specific low back pain rehabilitation aim to reduce the heterogeneity of the population of patients who are suitable for rehabilitation treatment in general.
  
  
  METHODS
  Three treatment-specific predictors were studied in patients with chronic non-specific low back pain receiving cognitive treatment of illness perceptions: a rational approach to problem-solving, discussion skills and verbal skills. Hierarchical linear regression analysis was used to assess their predictive value. Short-term changes in physical activity, measured with the Patient-Specific Functioning List, were the outcome measure for cognitive treatment of illness perceptions effect.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A total of 156 patients with chronic non-specific low back pain participated in the study. Rational problem-solving was found to be a significant predictor for the change in physical activity. Discussion skills and verbal skills were non-significant. Rational problem-solving explained 3.9% of the total variance.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The rational problem-solving scale results are encouraging, because chronic non-specific low back pain problems are complex by nature and can be influenced by a variety of factors. A minimum score of 44 points on the rational problem-solving scale may assist clinicians in selecting the most appropriate candidates for cognitive treatment of illness perceptions.
authors: Reade, Centre of Rehabilitation and Rheumatology (formerly Jan van Breemen Institute), Department of Rehabilitation Research, Amsterdam, the Netherlands. petra.siemonsma@tno.nl
authors: Petra C
authors: PC
authors: Siemonsma
authors: Ilse
authors: I
authors: Stuvie
authors: Leo D
authors: LD
authors: Roorda
authors: Joke A
authors: JA
authors: Vollebregt
authors: Gustaaf J
authors: GJ
authors: Lankhorst
authors: Ant T
authors: AT
authors: Lettinga
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002908:Chronic Disease; D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation / Q000628:therapy*; D008875:Middle Aged; D018579:Patient Selection; D011340:Problem Solving; D011379:Prognosis; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D016896:Treatment Outcome