The effectiveness of a combined exercise and psychological treatment programme on measures of nervous system sensitisation in adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain - a systematic review and meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Quantitative sensory testing (QST) offers information regarding underlying mechanisms contributing to chronic pain (CP) in adults with musculoskeletal disorders. This review examined the use of QST measures in adults with CP following participation in a combined exercise and psychological intervention. METHODS: The review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines. Five databases were searched from inception to November 2022. All study designs which evaluated the effects of a combined exercise and psychological treatment on measures of nervous system sensitivity in adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain were included. RESULTS: A total of 13 studies met the selection criteria, 10 of which were included in a meta-analysis. Local pressure pain thresholds were the most frequently used measure (n = 12 studies). Meta-analysis revealed statistically significantly improvements in favour of the combined exercise and psychological intervention group, compared to a control group, for local pressure pain threshold measures [SMD = 0.44, 95% CI 0.08-0.81, I2 = 84%], pain intensity scores [SMD=-0.89, 95% CI -1.66- -0.13, I2 = 94%] and the Central Sensitisation Inventory [SMD=-0.69, 95% CI -1.37- -0.02, I2 = 87%]. There were no significant differences found between groups for remote pressure pain thresholds, temporal summation or conditioned pain modulation. CONCLUSIONS: The results suggest that a combined exercise and psychological intervention may lead to greater improvements in local pressure pain threshold, pain intensity and Central Sensitisation Inventory scores when compared to a control intervention in adults with CP, however these findings must be interpreted with caution as a large degree of heterogeneity was present in these results (I2: 84-94%). Further large, longitudinal studies are required using standardised QST measurement procedures and patient reported outcome measures to explore changes in nervous system sensitisation. TRIAL REGISTRATION: This systematic review is registered with PROSPERO, ID Number CRD42022380464.

Pelvic organ prolapse: Women's experiences of Accessing Care & Recommendations for improvement.

Up to 50% of women will develop pelvic organ prolapse (POP) over their lifetime. Symptoms include pain, bulge, urinary, bowel and sexual symptoms affecting all aspects of a woman's life.Many women with POP symptoms present initially to primary care settings. Research has shown these interactions are often unsatisfactory, with women reporting their health care professional (HCP) trivialized their symptoms or appeared to have poor knowledge about pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD).Aim The aim of this qualitative study was to explore experiences of younger women seeking treatment for POP and their recommendations for improvements.Methods Ethics approval was obtained (LS-21-01-Carroll-Ful). Women with POP were recruited from an online support group (n = 930 members). Inclusion criteria: adult women, diagnosed with POP and aware of their POP stage. Following informed consent, a demographic questionnaire, interview questions and the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) were forwarded. Semi-structured zoom audio-recorded interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis was undertaken; transcripts coded, and themes identified.Results Fourteen women aged 32-41, parity 1-3, with POP Grade 1-3 participated. Many women reported HCPs as dismissive or not appreciative of the impact of their condition. Others described interactions with HCPs who they felt listened, understood the impact of their POP, gave simple explanations, a positive prognosis and outlined a realistic treatment plan.Current antenatal education, post-partum care and primary HCP screening for PFD were identified by women as deficient. Many highlighted delays in accessing specialist care for POP. Women made several recommendations for improvements to the current model of care.Conclusions Increased focus on person-centred care, particularly emotional support, information and education may improve younger women's experiences when seeking care for POP.

The Efficacy, Adverse Events, and Withdrawal Rates of the Pharmacological Management of Chronic Spinal Cord Injury Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To establish the efficacy of medications, incidence of adverse events (AEs), and withdrawal rates associated with the pharmacological management of chronic spinal cord injury pain. METHODOLOGY: PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, CENTRAL, and PsycINFO were searched (November 2017) and updated (January 2020). Two independent review authors screened and identified papers for inclusion. RESULTS: Twenty-one studies met inclusion requirements for efficacy analysis and 17 for AE and withdrawal rate analysis; no additional papers were included from the updated 2020 search. Treatments were divided into six categories: anticonvulsants (n = 6), antidepressants (n = 3), analgesics (n = 8), anti-spasticity medications (n = 2), cannabinoids (n = 1), and other (n = 2). Trials of anticonvulsants, antidepressants, and cannabinoids included long-term follow-up trials (2 weeks to 4 months), and trials of analgesics and anti-spasticity medications, among others, were short-term trials (0-2 days). Effectiveness for neuropathic pain was found for pregabalin (3/3 studies) and lidocaine (2/3 studies). Studies using ketamine also reported effectiveness (2/2), but the quality of these papers was rated as poor. The most frequently reported AEs included dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, and constipation. Pregabalin was associated with a higher risk of somnolence (risk ratio [RR] 3.15, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.00-4.98) and dizziness (RR 2.9, 95% CI: 1.58-5.30). Ketamine was associated with a higher risk of reduced vision (RR 9.00, 95% CI: 0.05-146.11), dizziness (RR 8.33, 95% CI: 1.73-40.10), and somnolence (RR 7.00, 95% CI: 1.73-40.1). Withdrawal rates ranged from 18.4% for antidepressants to 0-30% for anticonvulsants, 0-10% for anti-spasticity medications, 0-48% for analgesics, 28.6% for cannabinoids, and 0-22.2% for other medications. CONCLUSION: Pregabalin was found to be effective for neuropathic pain vs placebo. Cannabinoids were ineffective for neuropathic pain. AEs are a common cause for withdrawal. The nature of AEs was poorly reported, and AE reporting should be improved in future randomized controlled trials.

A randomised controlled trial of multimodal physiotherapy versus advice for recent onset, painful cervical radiculopathy - the PACeR trial protocol.

BACKGROUND: A research gap exists for optimal management of cervical radiculopathy in the first 12 weeks and short term natural history of the condition is somewhat unclear, although thought to be favourable. The primary aim of this assessor blinded, superiority, 2 parallel group randomised controlled trial is to investigate the effects of a 4 week physiotherapy programme (6-8 sessions) of manual therapy, exercise and upper limb neural unloading tape, compared to a control of weekly phone advice; on disability, pain and selected biopsychosocial measures, in acute and sub-acute cervical radiculopathy patients. A secondary aim is to identify whether any baseline variables, symptom duration or group allocation can predict outcome. METHODS: Participants are recruited from GP referrals in an urban setting, from a neurosurgery non-urgent waiting list and from self-referral through Facebook advertising. Eligible participants (n = 64) are diagnosed with radiculopathy based on a clinical prediction rule and must have symptoms of unilateral, single level, radiculopathy for between 2 and 12 weeks, without having yet received physiotherapy. Random 1:1 group allocation (using variable block sizes), allocation concealment, blinded assessment and intention to treat analysis are being employed. Treatment is provided by clinical specialist physiotherapists in primary and secondary care settings. Outcomes are measured at baseline, 4 (primary endpoint) and 12 weeks. Participants' report of pain, disability and their rating of recovery is also recorded by telephone interview at 6 months. Statistical analysis of between group differences will be performed with ANOVAs and MANOVAs, and multivariable regression analysis will be undertaken to explore predictor variables. Ethical approval for this study has been received from the Beaumont Hospital and Irish College of General Practitioners Research Ethics Committees. The trial is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02449200). DISCUSSION: An internal pilot study to test retention and recruitment strategies led to trial expansion and this is now a multi centre trial involving 5 clinical sites. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT02449200 . Registered 20/05/15.

Nervous System Sensitization as a Predictor of Outcome in the Treatment of Peripheral Musculoskeletal Conditions: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND: Research suggests that peripheral and central nervous system sensitization can contribute to the overall pain experience in peripheral musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions. It is unclear, however, whether sensitization of the nervous system results in poorer outcomes following the treatment. This systematic review investigated whether nervous system sensitization in peripheral MSK conditions predicts poorer clinical outcomes in response to a surgical or conservative intervention. METHODS: Four electronic databases were searched to identify the relevant studies. Eligible studies had a prospective design, with a follow-up assessing the outcome in terms of pain or disability. Studies that used baseline indices of nervous system sensitization were included, such as quantitative sensory testing (QST) or questionnaires that measured centrally mediated symptoms. RESULTS: Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria, of which six were at a high risk of bias. The peripheral MSK conditions investigated were knee and hip osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, and elbow tendinopathy. QST parameters indicative of sensitization (lower electrical pain thresholds, cold hyperalgesia, enhanced temporal summation, lower punctate sharpness thresholds) were associated with negative outcome (more pain or disability) in 5 small exploratory studies. Larger studies that accounted for multiple confounders in design and analysis did not support a predictive relationship between QST parameters and outcome. Two studies used self-report measures to capture comorbid centrally mediated symptoms, and found higher questionnaire scores were independently predictive of more persistent pain following a total joint arthroplasty. CONCLUSION: This systematic review found insufficient evidence to support an independent predictive relationship between QST measures of nervous system sensitization and treatment outcome. Self-report measures demonstrated better predictive ability. Further high-quality prognostic research is warranted.

Expert opinion regarding the preparation of entry-level physiotherapists for primary healthcare practice, examined using Biggs 3P's model of teaching learning.

INTRODUCTION: The scope of contemporary physiotherapy practice is a critical factor in determining the appropriate educational preparation for physiotherapists now and into the future. The world-wide shift from secondary to primary healthcare has, and is, continuing to result in new and different ways of working. It is crucial that curricular changes reflect these developments. In this study a qualitative approach using Biggs 3P's - Pressage, Process and Product model to discuss curriculum design. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to explore the perspectives of both national and international physiotherapy educators/practitioners in primary healthcare, on the key elements required in physiotherapy education programmes to prepare future primary healthcare practitioners. METHODS: Snowball sampling was used to identify experts in education and/or primary healthcare practice. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using an interview guide based on the Biggs 3P's model. PARTICIPANTS: Twelve participants were recruited from Ireland (n = 2), the UK (n = 4), Canada (n = 3), New Zealand (n = 2) and Australia (n = 1) using snowball sampling. RESULTS: Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Themes identified included; understanding the philosophy of physiotherapy practice, cultural competence, inter-disciplinary team working and communication skills. Contextual factors and teaching and learning strategies were discussed. CONCLUSIONS: There is an urgent need for physiotherapy education programmes to adopt the concept of primary healthcare as the basis for the physiotherapy curriculum and illuminate key components for consideration.

Divergent sensory phenotypes in nonspecific arm pain: comparisons with cervical radiculopathy.

OBJECTIVES: To investigate whether distinct sensory phenotypes were identifiable in individuals with nonspecific arm pain (NSAP) and whether these differed from those in people with cervical radiculopathy. A secondary question considered whether the frequency of features of neuropathic pain, kinesiophobia, high pain ratings, hyperalgesia, and allodynia differed according to subgroups of sensory phenotypes. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Higher education institution. PARTICIPANTS: Forty office workers with NSAP, 17 people with cervical radiculopathy, and 40 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (N=97). INTERVENTIONS: Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Participants were assessed using quantitative sensory testing (QST) comprising thermal and vibration detection thresholds and thermal and pressure pain thresholds; clinical examination; and relevant questionnaires. Sensory phenotypes were identified for each individual in the patient groups using z-score transformation of the QST data. RESULTS: Individuals with NSAP and cervical radiculopathy present with a spectrum of sensory abnormalities; a dominant sensory phenotype was not identifiable in individuals with NSAP. No distinct pattern between clinical features and questionnaire results across sensory phenotypes was identified in either group. CONCLUSIONS: When considering sensory phenotypes, neither individuals with NSAP nor individuals with cervical radiculopathy should be considered homogeneous. Therefore, people with either condition may warrant different intervention approaches according to their individual sensory phenotype. Issues relating to the clinical identification of sensory hypersensitivity and the validity of QST are highlighted.

Intraexaminer and interexaminer reliability of manual palpation and pressure algometry of the lower limb nerves in asymptomatic subjects.

OBJECTIVE: Nerve palpation is a method of clinically identifying mechanosensitivity of neural tissue by means of pressure algometry and manual palpation. There are few investigations of the reliability of lower limb nerve palpation, and femoral nerve palpation has never been previously reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability of nerve palpation of the femoral, sciatic, tibial, and common peroneal nerves and to report normative values for the femoral nerve. METHODS: The 4 lower limb nerves were palpated in 39 healthy volunteers using pressure algometry and manual digital palpation. Measurements were taken twice by 1 rater (intrarater reliability) and once by a second rater (interrater reliability). RESULTS: Intraclass correlation coefficients for pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) via pressure algometry of the femoral, common peroneal, tibial, and sciatic nerves were 0.69, 0.84, 0.64, and 0.9 for intrarater reliability, respectively, and 0.82, 0.7, 0.56, and 0.75 for interrater reliability. κ Values for manual palpation were 0.59, 0.55, 0.42, and 0.60 for intrarater reliability and 0.30, 0.49, 0.37, and 0.60 for interrater reliability. Males demonstrated significantly higher PPTs than females for the femoral, sciatic, and tibial nerves, and differences in PPTs were present between right and left sides. CONCLUSION: Nerve palpation of the femoral, common peroneal, and sciatic nerves using pressure algometry demonstrated good to excellent reliability, whereas the tibial nerve PPTs showed moderate to good reliability. Manual palpation measurements demonstrated fair to moderate reliability.

Adverse events following trigger point dry needling: a prospective survey of chartered physiotherapists.

OBJECTIVES: Trigger point dry needling (TrP-DN) is commonly used to treat persons with myofascial pain, but no studies currently exist investigating its safety. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of Adverse Events (AEs) associated with the use of TrP-DN by a sample of physiotherapists in Ireland. METHODS: A prospective survey was undertaken consisting of two forms recording mild and significant AEs. Physiotherapists who had completed TrP-DN training with the David G Simons Academy (DGSA) were eligible to take part in the study. Data were collected over a ten-month period. RESULTS: In the study, 39 physiotherapists participated and 1463 (19.18%) mild AEs were reported in 7629 treatments with TrP-DN. No significant AEs were reported giving an estimated upper risk rate for significant AEs of less than or equal to (≤) 0.04%. Common AEs included bruising (7.55%), bleeding (4.65%), pain during treatment (3.01%), and pain after treatment (2.19%). Uncommon AEs were aggravation of symptoms (0.88%), drowsiness (0.26%), headache (0.14%), and nausea (0.13%). Rare AEs were fatigue (0.04%), altered emotions (0.04%), shaking, itching, claustrophobia, and numbness, all 0.01%. DISCUSSION: While mild AEs were very commonly reported in this study of TrP-DN, no significant AEs occurred. For the physiotherapists surveyed, TrP-DN appeared to be a safe treatment.

The experiences of people living with obesity and chronic pain: A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis (QES) protocol.

INTRODUCTION: There is a substantial and progressive association between chronic pain (CP) and living with overweight or obesity. The relationship between obesity and CP is intricate and complex, with obesity being associated with increased pain-related disability, pain intensity, reduction in physical functioning and poorer psychological well-being. A Qualitative Evidence Synthesis (QES) provides an opportunity to better understand and reveal key areas within the patient experience of these complex interactions to inform best practice and future intervention design. AIMS: The aim of this QES is to methodically and systematically review and synthesise the qualitative literature reporting on the personal experiences of people who are both living with obesity (PwO) and chronic pain. METHODS: The phenomenon of interest of this QES is the lived experiences of PwO and CP. The following research question was developed using a modified Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome and Study type (PICOS) framework: "What are the lived experiences of people living with obesity and chronic pain?". One review author will conduct a systematic search based on keywords and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) terms for finding relevant articles in five peer-review databases, from inception to the date of searching. Two review authors will independently apply inclusion and exclusion criteria and screen articles in a two-stage process. The methodological quality of included studies will be assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool and data will be extracted using a customised template. We will undertake a thematic synthesis of qualitative data from included studies and report our findings narratively. Confidence in the findings will be assessed based on the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Confidence in Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CER-Qual) approach. FINDINGS AND DISSEMINATION: This study will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) and Enhancing Transparency in Reporting the Synthesis of Qualitative Research (ENTREQ) guidelines. It is anticipated that the findings of the review will facilitate a deep and broad understanding of the complex interactions between CP and obesity and will help inform best practice and future intervention design. Findings will be disseminated through journals that undergo peer review, presentations at conferences, engagement with public and patient advocacy groups, and social media. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval is not required to conduct this review. TRAIL REGISTRATION: PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023361391.

Acceptability of the combined online interactive mindfulness and exercise programme (MOVE-Online) for adults with chronic pain - A qualitative study.

PURPOSE: The aim of this qualitative study was to utilise the recent Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) to explore participants' acceptability of the mindfulness and exercise interventions in the MOVE-Online pain management programme (PMP) and the programmes' online delivery method. METHODS: Online focus groups were carried out following the completion of the PMP. The data were analysed using template analysis in terms of the seven TFA constructs of acceptability [(i) Perceived Effectiveness, (ii) Affective Attitude, (iii) Self-Efficacy, (iv) Ethicality, (v) Burden, (vi) Opportunity Costs and (vii) Intervention Coherence]. RESULTS: Twenty-one participants took part in the focus groups. Five of the seven TFA constructs of acceptability were identified in the analysis. The participants perceived the intervention to have been effective at achieving the goals of the PMP (TFA construct: (i) Perceived Effectiveness), to have supported their emotional management ((ii) Affective Attitude), promoted long term self-directed engagement ((iii) Self-Efficacy), fostered a valued group environment ((iv) Ethicality) and the online delivery of the programme reduced the physical burden associated with participation at an in-person PMP ((v) Burden). CONCLUSION: The results of the study supports the utility of the TFA as a tool to explore the multi-dimensional construct of acceptability for the participants in the MOVE-Online programme.

This investigation contributes to the understanding of acceptability as a complex multidimensional construct and emphasises the importance of considering the multiple dimensions when evaluating participants interpretations of novel complex interventions.Results suggest that participants found a pain management programme delivered in a live, online, interactive format to be acceptable, and it may be useful for rehabilitation professionals as an option for chronic pain management.

Co-Design of a website for women with pelvic organ prolapse: A study protocol.

Background: Despite high reported prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse (POP), women report difficulties accessing evidence-based and reliable information about the condition. Many rely on social media and other popular and highly visible internet platforms which have been found to contain poor quality information that is difficult for the average patient to understand. The aim of the study is to co-design an information website for premenopausal women with POP. The website design will be based on the Website Developmental Model for the Healthcare Consumer (WDMHC) framework. Methods: A four phase process will be utilised as per the WDMHC framework: 1) User, task and environmental analysis; 2) Functional and representational analysis; 3) Cognitive walkthrough, keystroke level model, heuristic testing; 4) Content based testing, expert testing and user-based testing.Ethics approval has been obtained (LS-23-19-Carroll-Ful). Two groups of stakeholders will be recruited (i) patient group (ii) healthcare professional (HCP) group. Patient participants will be recruited from an online pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) support group (n=950 members). A website designer and HCP stakeholders involved in the multidisciplinary team caring for women with POP will be invited to participate.Both groups will participate in separate co-design online workshops. Focus group workshops will be video-recorded, transcribed and imported into NVivo. Themes and subthemes will be developed.The website will be designed and disseminated to all participants for feedback. Cognitive walkthrough and heuristic testing will be undertaken. Following this, necessary modifications will be made to the website. Participants will then complete a modified System Usability Scale (SUS) and the eHealth Impact Questionnaire, while five HCPs will complete the DISCERN instrument. Conclusion: This study will inform the design and testing of an information website for women with POP. The website design and content will be informed by patient and HCP stakeholder voices and the health literacy literature.

Mindfulness Combined With Exercise Online (MOVE) Compared With a Self-management Guide for Adults With Chronic Pain: A Feasibility Randomized Controlled Trial.

OBJECTIVE: Limited studies exist combining mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) and exercise in a pain management programme (PMP), with none thus far delivering a combined intervention as an online PMP. This study aimed to explore the acceptability and feasibility of a combined MBSR and exercise online PMP for adults with chronic pain and to examine the feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing MBSR and exercise delivered online with an online self-management guide. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A feasibility RCT was conducted with participants randomized into the MOVE group (8-wk MBSR and exercise live online) or the self-management (SM) group (8-wk online self-management guide). Primary outcomes included recruitment, attrition, intervention adherence, and satisfaction. Participants wore a Fitbit watch during the study and completed patient-reported outcome measures at baseline, postintervention, and 12-week follow-up. RESULTS: Ninety-six participants were randomized and 80 (83.3%) completed the interventions. Higher mean satisfaction (Client Satisfaction Questionnaire-8) was reported in the MOVE group 26.2 (±5.5) than the SM group 19.4 (±5.6). The Patient Global Impression of Change scale showed favourable changes in both groups; 65.1% of the MOVE group, 42.3% of the SM group reporting improvement. Seventy-three participants (76.3%) adhered to wearing the Fitbit for 8 weeks. Comparable improvements postintervention and at a 12-week follow-up were noted within both groups for Brief Pain Inventory, Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire, Pain Disability Index, Pain Catastrophising Scale, Fear Avoidance Belief Questionnaire and Short Form-36 Health Survey. DISCUSSION: The findings suggest both interventions explored are acceptable and feasible. A fully powered RCT examining the effectiveness of MBSR combined with exercise, delivered live online is warranted.

Pelvic organ prolapse: The lived experience.

BACKGROUND: Up to 50% of women will develop pelvic organ prolapse (POP) over their lifetime. Symptoms include pain, bulge, urinary, bowel and sexual symptoms affecting all aspects of a woman's life. This study explores the lived experience of women with POP. METHODOLOGY: A qualitative study was undertaken. Following institutional ethical approval women from an online peer support group (n = 930 members) were recruited to participate in semi-structured interviews. Inclusion criteria stipulated women (> 18years), pre-menopausal, at least one-year post-partum, diagnosed with POP and aware of their diagnosis. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with a clinician specialising in pelvic health. A battery of questions was designed to elicit discussion on their experience of being diagnosed with POP and its impact on daily life and relationships. Interviews were carried out via Zoom, recorded and transcribed. Thematic analysis was undertaken. FINDINGS: Fourteen women (32-41 years), para 1-3 participated. All had at least one vaginal birth; three had vacuum, four had forceps operative births. All had Grade 1-3 POP. Interviews lasted 40-100 minutes. Three core themes with subthemes were identified; biological/physical, psychological and social. Women were particularly affected in terms of sport and exercise participation, their own perceptions of their ability as mothers and fear of their condition worsening. They described societal attitudes, reporting stigma around POP and women's pelvic health in general, expectations placed on women to put up with their symptoms and an idealised perception of new motherhood. CONCLUSIONS: The impact of POP from a biopsychosocial perspective reflects other chronic conditions. Prevention, early education and supports for developing strong self-management approaches would be beneficial for long term management of this condition.

Combined online interactive mindfulness and exercise programme (MOVE-Online) compared with a self-management guide for adults with chronic pain: protocol for a randomised controlled feasibility trial.

INTRODUCTION: Online pain management programmes (PMP) have growing evidence as effective interventions for individuals with chronic pain (CP). Mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is a psychological intervention proven to be effective in the management of CP. There is also a large body of evidence for the efficacy of exercise in the management of CP however, there are limited studies combining both these interventions and none to date delivering a combined intervention in the form of an online PMP. This study aims to explore the acceptability and feasibility of delivering a combined MBSR and exercise online PMP for adults with CP, and will examine the feasibility of conducting a randomised controlled trial of a combined MBSR and exercise online programme compared with an online self-management guide. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A parallel-group, feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) will be conducted among participants in Ireland, which will include an embedded qualitative study. Seventy-five participants will complete an online consent form and be individually randomised to one of two groups. Group A will participate in live online MBSR and supervised exercise sessions (2 hours MBSR, 1 hour exercise) once a week for 8 weeks. Group B will receive access to an 8-week online self-management guide, released biweekly and containing eight self-directed modules. Analyses of the feasibility study will be descriptive and will address the outcomes relating to the feasibility and acceptability of the interventions and procedures of the study including recruitment and eligibility, data collection methods, intervention adherence, engagement and attrition rates, intervention acceptability and participants' subjective perceptions of the programmes. Comparisons of clinical treatment effects, using validated patient-reported outcome measures will be explored descriptively to consider the viability of investigating a combined online MBSR and exercise intervention in a future fully powered RCT. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study was approved by the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital Institutional Review Board (1/378/2124) and the University College Dublin Human Research Ethics Committee (LS-20-76-Deegan-Doody). Informed consent will be obtained from each participant prior to randomisation. The results of this feasibility study will be published in peer-reviewed academic journals and presented at national and international conferences. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT04899622.

Exercise combined with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy compared with a standalone supervised exercise programme for adults with chronic pain: a randomised controlled trial.

ABSTRACT: A prospective, 2-armed, parallel group randomised controlled trial (RCT) was conducted to compare the effectiveness of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) combined with a supervised exercise programme with a supervised exercise programme alone for adults with chronic pain. One hundred seventy-five participants were individually randomised to receive either the combined Exercise and ACT (ExACT) intervention or supervised exercise alone. Those allocated to the ExACT group attended 8 weekly sessions with a psychologist based on the ACT approach, in addition to supervised exercise classes led by a physiotherapist. The control group attended weekly supervised exercise classes but did not take part in an ACT programme. Both groups were followed up postintervention and again after 12 weeks. The primary outcome was pain interference at 12-week follow-up. Estimates of treatment effects at follow-up were based on intention-to-treat analyses, implemented using a linear mixed-effects model. The findings of this RCT showed no difference in the effectiveness of ExACT, compared with a supervised exercise programme alone for the primary outcome pain interference at 12-week follow-up (mean difference -0.18, 95% confidence interval -0.84 to 0.48, P = 0.59, d = 0.11). ExACT group participants reported superior outcomes for pain self-efficacy, pain catastrophising, and committed action, compared with the control group, but there were no differences between the groups for other secondary outcomes or treatment process measures. Higher levels of treatment satisfaction and global impression of change were reported by ExACT group participants. Exercise combined with Acceptance and Commitment Therapy was not superior to a standalone supervised exercise programme for reducing pain interference in adults with chronic pain.

Multidimensional pain profiling in people living with obesity and attending weight management services: a protocol for a longitudinal cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: Pain is prevalent in people living with overweight and obesity. Obesity is associated with increased self-reported pain intensity and pain-related disability, reductions in physical functioning and poorer psychological well-being. People living with obesity tend to respond less well to pain treatments or management compared with people living without obesity. Mechanisms linking obesity and pain are complex and may include contributions from and interactions between physiological, behavioural, psychological, sociocultural, biomechanical and genetic factors. Our aim is to study the multidimensional pain profiles of people living with obesity, over time, in an attempt to better understand the relationship between obesity and pain. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: This longitudinal observational cohort study will recruit (n=216) people living with obesity and who are newly attending three weight management services in Ireland. Participants will complete questionnaires that assess their multidimensional biopsychosocial pain experience at baseline and at 3, 6, 12 and 18 months post-recruitment. Quantitative analyses will characterise the multidimensional pain experiences and trajectories of the cohort as a whole and in defined subgroups. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: The study protocol has been approved by the Ethics and Medical Research Committee of St Vincent's Healthcare Group, Dublin, Ireland (reference no: RS21-059) and the University College Dublin Human Research Ethics Committee (reference no: LS-E-22-41-Hinwood-Smart). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, conference presentations, public and patient advocacy groups, and social media. STUDY REGISTRATION: Open Science Framework Registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/QCWUE.

Reliability of thermal quantitative sensory testing of the hand in a cohort of young, healthy adults.

INTRODUCTION: The reliability of thermal quantitative sensory testing (QST) has yet to be fully established. In this study we investigated intra- and interrater reliability of thermal QST in a blinded manner. METHODS: Two investigators recorded thermal detection and pain thresholds on the hand of 22 volunteers, twice on two occasions. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and coefficients of variation (CVs). RESULTS: Mean intraindividual differences were small for all measures except cold pain thresholds. ICC values for intra- and interrater reliability were: cold detection, 0.27-0.55; warm detection, 0.33-0.69; and heat pain, 0.39-0.86. Cold pain yielded high ICC values (0.87-0.94), but also high CV (84.9-90.2%). CONCLUSIONS: In young, healthy adults, thermal detection and heat pain thresholds of the hand demonstrated good reliability for group comparisons and individual analyses. Cold pain threshold measures may be suitable for group comparisons, but a large variance in the data limits individual analyses.

An investigation of somatosensory profiles in work related upper limb disorders: a case-control observational study protocol.

BACKGROUND: Work related upper limb disorders constitute 45% of all occupational diseases and are a significant public health problem. A subgroup, non specific arm pain (NSAP), remains elusive in terms of understanding its pathophysiological mechanisms with its diagnosis based on the absence of specific clinical findings. One commonly proposed theory is that a neural tissue disorder is the primary dysfunction in NSAP and findings from previous studies lend some support to this theory. However, it is not clear if changes identified are simply a consequence of ongoing pain rather than due to specific neural changes. The presence of neuropathic pain has been investigated in several other musculoskeletal conditions but currently, there is no specific diagnostic tool or gold standard which permits an unequivocal diagnosis of neuropathic pain. The purpose of this study is to further describe the somatosensory profiles in patients with NSAP and to compare these profiles to a group of patients with MRI confirmed cervical radiculopathy who have been previously classified as having neuropathic pain. METHODS/DESIGN: Three groups of participants will be investigated: Groups 1 and 2 will be office workers with either NSAP or cervical radiculopathy and Group 3 will be a control group of non office workers without upper limb pain. Participants will undergo a clinical assessment, pain questionnaires (LANSS, Short Form McGill, DASH and TSK) and quantitative sensory testing comprising thermal detection and pain thresholds, vibration thresholds and pressure pain thresholds. DISCUSSION: The spectrum of clinically suspected neuropathic pain ranges from more obvious conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia to those with vague signs of nerve disorder such as NSAP. A thorough description of the somatosensory profiles of NSAP patients and a comparison with a more defined group of patients with evidence of neuropathic pain will help in the understanding of underlying neurophysiology in NSAP and may influence future classification and intervention studies relating to this condition.

Multidisciplinary-based Rehabilitation (MBR) Compared With Active Physical Interventions for Pain and Disability in Adults With Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effectiveness of multidisciplinary-based rehabilitation (MBR) in comparison with active physical interventions for adults with chronic pain. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The review was conducted in line with the recommendations provided in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews and is reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. A total of 8 electronic databases were searched from inception to November 2018. Only randomized controlled trials were eligible for inclusion. In total, 31 trials were identified, and most studies involved patients with chronic low back pain (25 trials). The main outcomes considered were pain intensity and disability at short-term follow-up (≤3 mo after treatment), medium-term follow-up (>3 and <12 mo), and long-term follow-up (≥12 mo). The quality of the evidence was assessed according to the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach RESULTS:: A total of 27 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Statistically significant differences in favor of MBR were found for pain intensity and disability at short-term follow-up (standardized mean difference=0.53 and 0.50) and long-term follow-up (standardized mean difference=0.56 and 0.77), but the quality of the evidence was low. There was no significant difference between MBR and active physical interventions in the medium-term follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, the results suggest that MBR may lead to greater improvements in pain intensity and disability compared with active physical interventions, and the effects appear to be sustained in the long term. However, these findings should be interpreted with caution in light of the low quality of the evidence, with all but one trial judged to be at high risk of bias. Further research is required to assess the effectiveness of MBR for people with chronic pain conditions other than low back pain.