Study Protocol: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial of Mindfulness Intervention to Reduce Low Back Pain, Psychological Symptoms and Enhance Work Productivity Among Academics in Malaysian Tertiary Education
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Abstract
Introduction: Despite the acknowledged impact of psychological factors on musculoskeletal pain (MSP), there remains limited evidence supporting the efficacy of mindfulness interventions in addressing this specific issue. Both mental health issues and MSP are prevalent among academics, yet there is a scarce study on the application of mindfulness interventions to these specific concerns. Therefore, we aimed to provide a study protocol that will focus on assessing the impact of mindfulness interventions on alleviating low back pain (LBP) and psychological symptoms and improving work productivity among academics. Methods: A single-blind, parallel cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted on 86 academics in the Northern Region of Peninsular Malaysia. At baseline, all participants must undergo the screening criteria for inclusion which are academics with a cut-off score of ≥16 for anxiety and a cut-off score of ≥11 for depression symptoms, and pain intensity of LBP should be at least ≥35mm. Participants will be randomized at cluster level to receive either mindfulness intervention or control group. The intervention will be given over 5 weeks, with each session lasting 60 minutes/week. Outcome measures such as LBP, depression and anxiety symptoms, and work productivity will be measured at baseline and after 5-weeks. Discussion: This trial marks the inaugural investigation into the effect of mindfulness intervention on LBP symptoms, symptoms of depression and anxiety, and work productivity among academics in Malaysian tertiary education. Our findings will significantly contribute to the successful implementation of mindfulness practices in the working setting. Trial Registration: NCT06214884
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