A service evaluation specifying the active components of a Functional Restorative Programme to promote management of persistent non-specific low back pain

Abstract Background Functional Restorative Programmes (FRP) for persistent non-specific lower back pain have been shown to be effective, but they often lack sufficient detailed reporting of the intervention components to allow for accurate replication. Objectives This study used the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy (v1) (BCTi) [1] to identify the main components of one such programme and interviewed patients to identify the most effective programme components and areas for improvement. Design A mixed methods design was used. Methods Intervention data were coded using the BCT Taxonomy (v1) to identify the BCTs utilised. Following this, semi-structured interviews with nine patients evaluated the BCTs included using thematic analysis and identified possible techniques for inclusion in future developments of the programme. Results Forty-one different BCTs were identified in the coding phase with frequency of occurrence in the programme ranging from forty-nine to one. Four main themes emerged from the interviews: Social Support, Shaping Knowledge, Repetition and Substitution and Changes in Mindset. Conclusion The results of this study identify the key ingredients in a programme for persistent, non-specific lower back pain, which facilitates the replication of this intervention and identified areas patients appreciated most as well as areas for improvement.