Faculty Advisor

William Hanney, PT, DPT, ATC, Ph.D.

Publication Date

5-2022

Abstract

Background: Chronic low back pain (cLBP) affects up to 84% of adults. Evidence suggests a strong therapeutic alliance (TA) enhances care in a variety of ways. While themes associated with strong alliances have been identified, few studies have provided instructions on utilizing this information to craft a strong TA in physical therapy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to look at the effectiveness and feasibility of a training protocol to enhance the TA in patients with cLBP.

Methods: A total of 19 practicing physical therapists and 16 physical therapy students completed a TA training course with a pre and post quantitative questionnaire and qualitative interview.

Results: Quantitative results demonstrated that the training generated significant differences in the beliefs of both practicing therapists and students (p<0.01). All three groups (SPT/DPT, SPT, DPT) saw a statistically significant improvement in feeling comfortable with their knowledge of how to build a strong therapeutic alliance. The results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of TA training and suggest potential for physical therapists and physical therapy students to enhance the TA and improve patient outcomes. Qualitative interview results revealed participants felt communication was the most important theme for contributing to a successful TA. Participants found value in practical handouts accompanied with the training, and all participants felt their understanding of how to build the TA was either improved or reinforced.

Conclusion: The results of this study demonstrate the efficacy of TA training, and suggest potential for programs and clinics to benefit from implementing such instruction into practice and the DPT curriculum.

Access Status

Open Access

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