Cognitive Functional Therapy

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Original Editor - Kapil Narale Top Contributors - Bruce Knudsen, Kapil Narale, Lucinda hampton, Sehriban Ozmen and Jonathan Wong  

Introduction[edit | edit source]

Cognitive Functional Therapy (CFT) was developed as an approach to address and manage disabling Low Back Pain (LBP). It can be used for many different types of back pain. It can also be translated to other disorders as well. The underlying motive for this approach is to analyse the behavioural psychology and beliefs seen within patterns of movement. Within these patterns, the Physiotherapist would identify modifiable and unmodifiable factors associated with an individual's LBP . This gives therapists and clinicians the chance to explore the various factors and facets of one's LBP, considering the views of the individual. The goal of employing the CFT is to assist individuals and patients in understanding their pain within their viewpoint, and determining strategies for them to manage their pain within their goals of activities, participation, and lifestyle. Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag

Support from a randomized controlled trial showed significant improvement in disability, fear avoidance scores and anxiety/depressions symptoms compared to manual therapy with exercise over a 3 year period.  No significant change between CFT and manual therapy with exercise were noted.[1]

A systematic review and meta-analysis did not show support of CFT over usual care, specifically manual therapy with core exercises.  Control of bias and summary effect attempted via Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 and the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE) Approach.[2]

Resources[edit | edit source]

To see the full study explaining CFT, with various diagrams, flowcharts, and models, including a web with CFT qualifiers, check out the paper here.

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Vibe Fersum K, Smith A, Kvåle A, Skouen JS, O'Sullivan P. Cognitive functional therapy in patients with non‐specific chronic low back pain—a randomized controlled trial 3‐year follow‐up. European Journal of Pain. 2019 Sep;23(8):1416-24.
  2. Devonshire JJ, Wewege MA, Hansford HJ, Odemis HA, Wand BM, Jones MD, McAuley JH. Effectiveness of cognitive functional therapy for reducing pain and disability in chronic low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis. journal of orthopaedic & sports physical therapy. 2023 May;53(5):244-85.