Acceptability of a physiotherapeutic pain school treatment in trauma-affected populations in the Middle Eastern & Northern African region

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evalu-ate the acceptability of a physiotherapeutic pain treatment (Pain School), focusing on patient education, physical exercises and self-reliance, and a capacity building program developed for MENA based physiotherapists working with pain and trauma-affected populations. Method: Qualitative interviews with seven physiotherapists participating in the Pain School training program. Preliminary results of the Pain School treatment were also ana-lyzed in 38 patients suffering from persistent pain and trauma-related stress. Results: The qualitative analysis showed good feasibility and high acceptance among the participating physiotherapists. The pre-to post-treatment evaluation of Pain School, also gave an indication of positive treatment effects. Limitations: Lack of mental health mea-sures, author biases (authors carrying out training, interviews and analyzing qualitative results) and no control group.