Italian Physical Therapists’ Experiences from Working with Patients with Chronic Pain

Abstract: Background: Chronic pain is considered to be a major health issue globally, whereof Italy is one of the highest ranked countries regarding chronic pain prevalence in Europe. Chronic pain has a negative impact on quality of life and functions on a biological, social, and psychological level, which concerns all health professionals. For this reason, health care providers have an important role working with these patients. Aim: This study aims to explore and bring knowledge about Italian physical therapists’ experiences of working with patients with chronic pain. Design: A qualitative method with an exploratory and descriptive design, based on semi structured interviews was used for the purpose of understanding the physical therapists’ experiences of working with patients with chronic pain. Furthermore, the data was analyzed by a qualitative content analysis and had an inductive approach. Results: The analysis generated five categories: The importance of trust and relations, Professional challenges and positive potentials, Physical therapists’ reflection on their own contribution, Physical therapists’ and patients’ different viewpoints and The view on the profession.   Conclusion: This study revealed that Italian physical therapists regard themselves to play a crucial part in the work with patients with chronic pain. It emphasizes the essential parts of the work of gaining the patient’s trust and forming an alliance. Despite the physical therapists’ contribution to these patients, there exist factors that frequently prevent the rehabilitation from being successful. The results could be of value for future physical therapists working with chronic pain. Keywords: Physical therapy, experience, chronic pain, Italy