The Power of Positive Feedback and Motivation

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Published studies have shown that regular exercise can help people who suffer from chronic low back pain (LBP). Unfortunately, however, many LBP sufferers do not follow through and complete their recommended exercise program. Part of the reason, some scientists believe, is that these people do not receive enough motivation from their doctor to complete the program.

In this study, researchers looked at the effect motivation and positive feedback could have on people with chronic low back pain. Ninety-three patients were randomized into two groups and followed at different intervals for 5 years. The first group participated in a series of 10 25-minute training sessions an average of 2.3 times per week, with gradual increases in exercise over time. The second group engaged in the same series of exercises, but also received other interventions, such as counseling, problem-solving strategies, positive feedback from practitioners, and the signing a "contract" in which the patient agreed to stay on the exercise program.

While patients in both groups showed significant improvements in disability scores, "the cumulative effect in the motivational group across all points of assessment was more than twice that in the control group." In addition, only patients who received motivation and positive feedback showed a significant increase in the ability to return to their original level of work activity. The authors concluded that "the combined exercise and motivation program was superior to the standard exercise program" for patients with chronic low back pain.

Exercise is an important tool that can be used to treat low back pain, but it is by no means the only one. Receiving encouragement and support from others, along with a balanced diet, are just as important. Using these therapies together will help relieve your back pain - and make you a happier, healthier person.


Friedrich M, Gittler G, Arendasy M, Friedrich KM. Long-term effect of a combined exercise and motivational program on the level of disability of patients with chronic low back pain. Spine, 2005;30(9):995-1000.