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Research Article: A Qualitative Investigation of the Psychosocial Impact of Chronic Low Back Pain in Ghana

Date Published: 2023-07-20

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.

Introduction:
Low back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disability globally. 1 2 The prevalence of LBP has risen significantly in the last three decades: a 54% increase from 1990 to 2015. 3 The prevalence of LBP is projected to continue to rise, especially in low-income and middle-income countries. 1 The estimated point, annual, lifetime prevalence of LBP in Africa is 39%, 57% and 47%, respectively. 4 According to Kahere et al , 5 the prevalence of chronic LBP (CLBP) in sub-Saharan Africa ranged from: 18% to 28% among the…

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