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Effectiveness of Communication-Focused Pain Neuroscience Education in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
Sponsor: University of Thessaly
Summary
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the "Algo(S)Therapy" Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) program in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The study will assess whether the integration of communication skills training for physiotherapists enhances the outcomes of PNE. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) PNE with communication-focused delivery, (2) PNE without communication emphasis, or (3) standard- usual physiotherapy care. The primary objective is to determine whether PNE combined with enhanced communication skills leads to greater improvements in pain, function, and psychosocial outcomes compared to the other interventions.
Official title: Effectiveness of the 'Algo(S)Therapy' Pain Neuroscience Education Program Emphasizing Physiotherapists' Communication Skills in Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 65 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
90
Start Date
2025-06-17
Completion Date
2025-10-30
Last Updated
2025-07-15
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Pain Neuroscience Education with Communication Training
This intervention includes individualized physiotherapy based on a Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) framework delivered by physiotherapists who completed the full "Algo(S)Therapy" training program. The training includes education in the neurophysiology of pain, clinical reasoning for chronic musculoskeletal pain management, and structured communication skills development (e.g., motivational interviewing, empathy, active listening). The intervention is delivered twice per week over 5 weeks (10 sessions total).
Pain Neuroscience Education without Communication Training
A structured PNE program focusing on the neurophysiology and clinical management of chronic musculoskeletal pain. Delivered by physiotherapists trained only in the scientific modules of the "Algo(S)Therapy" program. Does not include communication skills training. Includes 10 sessions (2/week for 5 weeks), alongside standard physiotherapy care.
Usual Physiotherapy Treatment
Usual care based on medical referral and physiotherapy assessment. Delivered by physiotherapists who have not received training in Pain Neuroscience Education or communication techniques. No components of the "Algo(S)Therapy" program are included.
Locations (1)
Physiotherapy Department, University of Thessaly, Greece
Lamia, Central Greece, Greece