Determinants of disability and functional capacity in patients with chronic low back pain

PhD ceremony: Ms. H.R. Schiphorst Preuper, 16.15 uur, Aula Academiegebouw, Broerstraat 5, Groningen

Dissertation: Determinants of disability and functional capacity in patients with chronic low back pain

Promotor(s): prof. J.H.B. Geertzen

Faculty: Medical Sciences

Main aim of this thesis was to gain a better understanding of determinants of disability and functional capacity in patients with CLBP. Concluded was that psychological factors are not as strong determinants for (dis)ability as has been suggested. The relationship between pain and disability was often stronger. A subgroup of patients with CLBP might respond to analgesics with pain reduction, resulting in improvement in functioning. Consequently it seems important to assess and treat patients in a more balanced biopsychosocial model, with equal consideration for biomedical, psychological and social factors.