Self-perception as embodied knowledge – changing processes for patients with chronic pain

Abstract

The study's purpose was to explore change and perception of change related to patients with chronic back and/or neck pain through treatment courses of Norwegian psychomotor physiotherapy. A multiple case synthesis of nine cases, nine patients and five physiotherapists, was based on in-depth interviews and repeated video-recordings. Patients wrote reflective notes. In order to study changing processes within and over sessions a two-step procedure was applied: identifying main changing patterns, and identifying patient groups concerning similarities and varieties of main changing patterns. Five changing patterns were identified: (i) to move restricted and non-restricted; (ii) to breathe restricted and non-restricted; (iii) to reflect in a non-exploring and exploring way; (iv) to not transfer and transfer experience from treatment to daily life; and (v) to be detached from and to be in touch with the body. Two patient groups were identified: the limited and the considerable change groups. The process of self-perception seemed to be integrated in all the changing patterns, and to be a basis for reducing pain, and changing movement, breath and expression within and outside therapy. Self-perception appeared as a process of varying acts and self-knowledge. Merleau-Ponty's phenomenological perspective of perception may add to the understanding of change.

• Back pain
• Norwegian psychomotor physiotherapy
• phenomenology
• qualitative methods