Article

This study examined the effect of a walking intervention on step counts among
patients with chronic back pain who report opioid use. Data were collected as
part of a randomized trial to reduce back-pain-related disability. Participants
(n = 118 usual care, 111 intervention) were Veterans receiving care within one
healthcare system. Step counts were collected at baseline, 6 mo, and 12 mo via an
uploading pedometer. Self-reported opioid use was collected by survey. More than
40% (n = 99) of participants reported opioid use at baseline. After adjustment,
the predicted mean step count for baseline opioid users assigned to the
intervention increased by more than 1,200 steps compared with a reduction of
nearly 400 steps for those assigned to usual care (between-group difference =
1,625 steps, p = 0.004). Among nonopioid users, there was no change for those in
the intervention (-16 steps) and an increase of about 660 steps for those
assigned to usual care (between-group difference = 683 steps, p = 0.17). These
data show that patients taking opioids may engage in walking to help manage their
back pain. This finding emphasizes the importance of encouraging the use of
alternative pain management strategies for these patients.

Langue : ANGLAIS