Multimodal cognitive behavioral treatment of patients sicklisted for musculoskeletal pain: a randomized controlled study

Abstract

In a randomized controlled study multimodal cognitive behavioral treatment (MMCBT), including physical treatment, cognitive behavioral modification, education, and examination of the work situation for each patient, was given to patients sick-listed for musculoskeletal pain (n = 469). Patients were recruited through the National Insurance System. After a pre-test by an independent physiotherapist the patients were allocated at random to the intervention group (n = 312) or the control group (n = 157). The MMBCT program lasted for 4 weeks. The control group returned to their general practitioners, without any feedback or advice on therapy from the project. At the one year follow-up the MMCBT group had not returned to work at a higher rate than the control group receiving ordinary treatment available through their general practitioners. However, the MMCBT group had improved their ergonomic behavior, work potential, life quality, physical, and psychological health.