Providers should take into account that CLBP patients have
a great need for open communication. This finding raises
doubts about recommendations that the physician should
use neutral and nonthreatening terms63 when communicating
with CLBP patients. Many patients also want a participatory
communication style. Given that the spread of preferences in
this area was rather low, providers can assume with a rather
high probability that a patient-centered communication style
will meet the needs of their patients. A flexible approach to
individual communication needs appears to be especially
important for communication about emotional and personal
issues, because patients show the clearest differences in
these areas.