“Learn and Move” Program for the Management of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain in Primary Care: A Pilot Study

Read full text
Authors: Víctor Ortíz-Mallasén, Irene Llagostera‐Reverter, Laura Andreu-Pejó, Marta Masiá-Ramos, Francisca Arriero-Sánchez, María Rosario Mondéjar-Martín, Cristina Cuadrado-Baca, María José Micó-López, María Jesús Valero‐Chillerón, Águeda Cervera-Gasch
Cited by: 1
References: 51

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Chronic musculoskeletal pain is highly prevalent in primary care and is associated with impaired quality of life and increased healthcare utilization. Multimodal physiotherapy approaches combining pain neuroscience education and therapeutic exercise are recommended; however, evidence regarding their feasibility and medium-term effects in Spanish primary care remains limited. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of a group-based multimodal physiotherapy program on health-related quality of life and other clinical outcomes. Methods: A multicenter, quasi-experimental pilot study with a pre–post design and 6-month follow-up was conducted in two primary care physiotherapy units in Spain. Adults with non-specific chronic musculoskeletal pain lasting ≥6 months participated in a 12-week group-based intervention combining pain neuroscience education and therapeutic exercise. Outcomes included health-related quality of life (SF-36), pain intensity (VAS), pain catastrophizing (PCS), kinesiophobia (TSK-11), central sensitization (CSI), analgesic consumption, healthcare utilization, and patient satisfaction. Intragroup changes, effect sizes, and minimal clinically important difference were analyzed. Results: Thirty-seven participants completed the program, with adherence > 80% and no adverse events. Significant improvements were observed at 6 months in all outcomes, with moderate to large effect sizes (SF-36, VAS, PCS). Between 54% and 78% of participants achieved minimal clinically important differences in key domains. Improvements were maintained at follow-up without clinically relevant deterioration. Conclusions: This pilot study suggests that a group-based multimodal physiotherapy program is feasible and potentially effective for managing chronic musculoskeletal pain in primary care. Larger controlled trials are warranted.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Research Musculoskeletal Disorders and Rehabilitation

Publication details

Journal / source
Healthcare
Publisher
MDPI AG
Volume
14
Issue
4
Pages
456–456
Publication date
11 February 2026
Language
EN