Role of Physical Therapy in Reducing Economic Burden of Low Back Pain: A Social Sciences Analysis

Abstract

Background: Low back pain (LBP) is a major contributor to global disability and economic burden, significantly impacting healthcare systems, workplace productivity, and individual well-being. Despite its high prevalence, LBP is often poorly managed, leading to chronicity and increased societal costs.

Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed-methods study was conducted in an urban setting rehabilitation centers in Pakistan over a 6-month period. A total of 385 participants with non-specific LBP were selected using purposive sampling. Participants were categorized into two groups: those receiving structured physical therapy and those under conventional care management. Outcome measures included direct treatment costs, number of workdays lost, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, and patient-reported quality of life. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26 for quantitative data (descriptive statistics, t-tests, and regression analysis), while thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses.

Results: Participants receiving physical therapy demonstrated a significant reduction in direct healthcare costs compared to those under conventional care (Mean±SD: PKR 6,800±1,200 vs. PKR 11,300±1,800; p<0.001). The mean number of workdays lost was also significantly lower in the physical therapy group (5.2±2.1 days vs. 11.6±3.4 days; p<0.01). Pain intensity, measured using the Visual Analog Scale, decreased from a baseline mean of 7.6±1.1 to 3.1±0.9 after four weeks of therapy (p<0.001). Quality of life scores, assessed via a modified WHOQOL-BREF, improved significantly in domains of physical health and social participation (p<0.05).

Conclusion: Physical therapy plays a crucial role in reducing the economic burden of low back pain through cost-effective management and improved functional outcomes. A socially informed, early-intervention model of care can significantly reduce long-term economic burden on individuals and health systems. Findings support policy recommendations for integrating physical therapy into primary care strategies as a cost-effective approach to LBP management.