Medical Exercise Therapy for Treating Musculoskeletal Pain: A Narrative Review of Results from Randomized Controlled Trials with a Theoretical Perspective

Background and Purpose The purpose of this narrative review is to present an overview and theoretical rationale of medical exercise therapy (MET) as a physiotherapeutic rehabilitation treatment for musculoskeletal pain conditions. Results from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted on MET are also presented. Methods Computerized searches for any RCTs were conducted on the MET concept in the databases PubMed, Medline, Embase and ISI Web of science up to 2013. Results Overall findings from five included MET RCTs are long‐term (≥1 year) reductions in pain and improved physical and functional capabilities. These results are interpreted in the context of the biopsychosocial model, advancing the view of a dynamic interaction among physiologic, psychological and social factors that influence pain modulation. Discussion MET is a biopsychosocial treatment that reduces pain and improves activities of daily living in patients with a musculoskeletal pain condition. Pain modulation is a key feature of MET, and an important area for further research is to elucidate the specific mechanisms behind the treatment effects. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.