Relationship between multiple predictor variables and final functional status in low back pain patients with chronic pain syndrome: A retrospective study

Purposes of this study were to develop a model to predict (a) which patients with chronic pain syndrome (CPS) and low back pain would achieve better functional outcomes, and (b) which of these patients would return-to-work. Records of 32 patients treated in a multidisciplinary chronic pain management program for an average of 20 days were reviewed to obtain data on duration of symptoms, initial pain rating scores, initial depression scores on a Pain Patient Profile, and initial and final Oswestry Disability scores. Data were analyzed using stepwise multiple regression to identify factors predictive of functional outcomes and return to employment. Results demonstrated that duration of symptoms was the only significant, however, fair predictor of functional outcome (R = .36; p < 0.05), and initial functional score predicted return-to-work status (R = .41; p < 0.05). In conclusion, duration of symptoms and pre-treatment disability need consideration as possible admission criteria for patients with CPS in multidisciplinary pain management programs.