Affiliations: School of Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa,
Ottawa, Canada | School of Rehabilitation, Université de
Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, Canada
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Stéphane Poitras, School of
Rehabilitation, University of Ottawa, 451 Smyth, Ottawa, Ontario K1H 8M5,
Canada. Tel.: +1 613 562 5800 ext 8121; Fax: +1 613 562 5428; E-mail:
Stephane.poitras@uottawa.ca
Abstract: Objective: Identify barriers and facilitators related to the use of
low-back pain guidelines as perceived by occupational therapists (OTs). Methods and participants: A qualitative approach was used. Nine OTs with
varied characteristics were randomly selected. Participants were asked to use
the guidelines with at least two clients. Semi-structured interviews were done
to identify barriers and facilitators related to use. Transcripts of the
interviews were analyzed. Results: Participants agreed with the
guidelines, found them compatible with their current practice, and believed
using them would help in preventing persistent disability. Some questioned if
their work organization, based on group therapy, would limit their use of the
guidelines. Because of the guidelines' biopsychosocial perspective, they
anticipated problems regarding client expectations and collaboration with other
health professionals. Conclusions: Participating OTs raised few barriers
related to them. Barriers were mostly related to client expectations, work
organization and peers. It appears the guidelines would be easily implemented
by OTs, but environmental elements could limit this.
