Objective: to summarize the knowledge regarding the maladaptive beliefs of patients with non-specific low back pain.
Methods: a narrative literature review on these beliefs was conducted by an international and multidisciplinary team of experts in the field.
Results: these beliefs, which can result in negative consequences on functioning and on patient prognosis, have various origins: family and friends, media, previous experience and/or health care professionals' messages. The latter, who have a considerable and enduring influence, have the potential to change and correct the patients' misbeliefs; however, they can also reinforce them in case of inappropriate messages and attitudes. Informing and educating the patient (by means of reassurance, explanations of the non-systematic association pain-injury, encouragement to get and stay physically active) are the basis of treatment. Taking into account the consequences of some words which may be misinterpreted, the results of imaging should be wisely discussed with the patient. Pain neurophysiology education and cognitive behavioral therapy (i.a., in vivo graded exposure techniques) are effective additional treatments.
Conclusions: Misbeliefs are frequent in patient with low back pain. They do need to be looked for and corrected.