The effectiveness of physical therapy treatments in patients with chronic low back pain is significantly influenced by patient adherence. This adherence is shaped by various factors, including the need for comprehensive care, effective patient-physical therapist communication, and the patient's socioeconomic circumstances.

To identify variables perceived by patients that influence adherence to treatment.

This study employed a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews to collect data from patients undergoing physical therapy treatment at a teaching clinic. A convenience sampling method was used, including adult males and females with non-specific chronic low back pain. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed through qualitative content analysis to identify themes related to patients' self-perception of treatment adherence. Data collection involved individual interviews with a pre-established guiding script that included both open and closed questions, categorized into the following thematic axes: I – Psychosocial Factors; II – Communication and Professional-Patient Relationship; III – Behavioral and Motivational Factors.

Content analysis identified three main themes regarding patients' perceptions of adherence to physical therapy treatment: (I) Family support, (II) Expectation of improvement, and (III) Perception of pain relief. Many patients highlighted the crucial role of family support in ensuring treatment continuity. Additionally, the belief that physical therapy could prevent more invasive interventions, such as surgery, and improve quality of life was recognized as a motivating factor. Furthermore, the recognition of progressive pain relief emerged as a key reason for continued treatment.

Adherence to physical therapy treatment in patients with non-specific chronic low back pain is influenced by multiple factors, with significant contributions from family support, the expectation of improvement, and the perception of pain relief. Therefore, strategies aimed at strengthening the patient-physical therapist relationship, enhancing family involvement, and emphasizing the benefits of treatment should be incorporated into physical therapy approaches.

Future research should explore these variables in different populations and regional contexts and employ longitudinal designs to assess how perceptions and adherence evolve over time. It is also crucial to test personalized, multifaceted interventions that integrate technological, educational, and behavioral components to sustain patient motivation in a more long-lasting manner.