Do patients in neurosurgical wards benefit from psychotherapy? A brief discussion on the application of cognitive-behavioural therapy in patients treated for spinal conditions

Abstract

The present article reviews the existing literature on the application and effectiveness of cognitive-behavioural therapy in a group of patients with spine problems. It encompasses publications describing the use of cognitive-behavioural therapy in the treatment of patients with back pain and spinal cord injuries of various aetiologies, as well as those experiencing disabilities and difficulties in social and emotional functioning. The findings confirm that cognitive-behavioural interventions are effective in reducing the intensity of pain, improving mobility, reducing the duration of professional inactivity, facilitating adaptation to disability, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. They also support the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions in addressing depressive and anxiety disorders among these patients. It appears that both the traditional and newer approaches of cognitive-behavioural therapy offer potential in patients with spine issues and their families and caregivers. However, due to the insufficient number of randomised and controlled studies, high heterogeneity among study groups, and diversity of research protocols, it is not possible to definitive formulate final conclusions or recommendations at this stage. Nevertheless, the literature findings herein support further exploration of cognitive-behavioural therapy among patients experiencing spine problems.