RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07001449

Effectiveness of Communication-Focused Pain Neuroscience Education in Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

Effectiveness of the 'Algo(S)Therapy' Pain Neuroscience Education Program Emphasizing Physiotherapists' Communication Skills in Patients With Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Sponsor

University of Thessaly

Enrollment

90 participants

Start Date

Jun 17, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

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.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This clinical trial is studying a behavioral approach called Pain Neuroscience Education with Communication Training, a behavioral approach called Pain Neuroscience Education without Communication Training, and others for people with chronic musculoskeletal pain. The study is currently recruiting participants at 1 location. People eligible for this study include aged 18 Years to 65 Years.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

BEHAVIORALPain 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).

BEHAVIORALPain 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.

BEHAVIORALUsual 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.