Riassunto dello studio

80 patients who underwent lumbar surgery for spinal stenosis or disc herniation were randomized to receive 4 weeks of pain and psychological pain management training (n=40) or conventional post-operative care (n=40). Outcomes of interest included pain intensity on a numeric rating scale (NRS), the pain anxiety symptoms scale (PASS), and disability on the Oswestry disability index (ODI). Outcomes were measured upon completion of the intervention and 3 weeks post-intervention. The intervention group showed significantly better results in all outcomes compared to the control group, with the largest difference being shown in the pain anxiety outcome. A physical and psychological pain management training program, with physical exercises and psychological education and training, may facilitate better recovery and improved outcomes post-lumbar surgery.