Exercise, PNE and Cognitive Training in Individuals With Chronic Low Back Pain

Pain Neuroscience Education, Exercise, and Cognitive Training in Individuals With Idiopathic Chronic Low Back Pain: a Three-arm Randomized Trial

This study aims of to investigate whether combining cognitive training to exercise and Pain Neuroscience Education will contribute to reduction of pain and associated symptoms (i.e., catastrophizing, fear of movement, disability) in individuals with low back pain (LBP).

This study aims of to investigate whether combining cognitive training to exercise and Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) will contribute to reduction of pain and associated symptoms (i.e., catastrophizing, fear of movement, disability) in individuals with low back pain (LBP).

It will have three arms of which will receive exercise, PNE and/or cognitive training for 8 weeks (Group I - exercise and PNE; Group II - exercise, PNE and cognitive training; Group III - cognitive training).

Participants will be assessed for pain characteristics, psychological, and cognitive aspects at baseline, post-intervention and at 3 months follow-up.

Inclusion Criteria:

• have chronic idiopathic LBP
• report pain intensity of at least 2 out of 10 on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale
• 18 to 64 years old
• Be able to read, write and speak Portuguese
• Asses to personal computer and internet for those receiving cognitive training

Exclusion Criteria:

• individuals receiving any chronic treatment for their pain
• symptoms of peripheral nervous system pathology (e.g., motor weakness and sensory disturbance);
• a diagnosis of an ongoing neurological disease with peripheral or central nervous system involvement or relevant sequela;
• having a diagnosis of ongoing psychiatric disease
• having relevant cognitive impairment as assessed by Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA).