Conclusion This study provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of pedometer walking interventions in increasing PA levels for patients with MSDs .
Our findings suggest that a combination of interventions is likely to be the most effective strategy to maximize health benefits in the short term .
Background Physical activity ( PA ) plays an important role in the prevention and management of a number of chronic conditions .
Aim : to investigate the evidence for effectiveness of pedometer-driven walking programs to promote physical activity among patients with musculoskeletal disorders ( MSDs ) .
Veterans walk to beat back pain: study rationale, design and protocol of a randomized trial of a pedometer-based Internet mediated intervention for patients with chronic low back pain
Background Chronic back pain is a significant problem worldwide and may be especially prevalent among patients receiving care in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs healthcare system . Back pain affects adults at all ages and is associated with disability , lost workplace productivity , functional limitations and social isolation . Exercise is one of the most effective strategies for managing chronic back pain . Yet , there are few clinical programs that use low cost approaches to help patients with chronic back pain initiate and maintain an exercise program . Methods / Design We describe the design and rationale of a r and omized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of a pedometer-based Internet mediated intervention for patients with chronic back pain . The intervention uses an enhanced pedometer , website and e-community to assist these patients with initiating and maintaining a regular walking program with the primary aim of reducing pain-related disability and functional interference . The study specific aims are : 1 ) To determine whether a pedometer-based Internet-mediated intervention reduces pain-related functional interference among patients with chronic back pain in the short term and over a 12-month timeframe . 2 ) To assess the effect of the intervention on walking ( measured by step counts ) , quality of life , pain intensity , pain related fear and self-efficacy for exercise . 3 ) To identify factors associated with a sustained increase in walking over a 12-month timeframe among patients r and omized to the intervention . Discussion Exercise is an integral part of managing chronic back pain but to be effective requires that patients actively participate in the management process . This intervention is design ed to increase activity levels , improve functional status and make  exercise programs more accessible for a broad range of patients with chronic back pain . Trial Registration
Conclusion This study provides strong evidence for the effectiveness of pedometer walking interventions in increasing PA levels for patients with MSDs .
Our findings suggest that a combination of interventions is likely to be the most effective strategy to maximize health benefits in the short term .
Background Physical activity ( PA ) plays an important role in the prevention and management of a number of chronic conditions .
Aim : to investigate the evidence for effectiveness of pedometer-driven walking programs to promote physical activity among patients with musculoskeletal disorders ( MSDs ) .