Designing and evaluating online communities for promoting self-management of chronic low back pain. (3rd January 2008)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rubinelli, Sara; Schulz, Peter J.; Vago, Fausto
• Is Part Of: International journal of Web based communities. Volume 4:Number 1(2008)
• Page Start: 80
• Page End: 97
• Publication Date: 2008-01-03
• Subjects: health communication -- internet -- virtual communities -- self-management -- pain management -- chronic low back pain -- tailoring health messages -- doctor-patient interaction -- web-based communities -- online communities -- healthcare technology -- health professionals -- patients; Online social networks -- Periodicals; Social media -- Periodicals; World Wide Web -- Periodicals; 302.30285
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1477-8394

Abstract

This study discusses the organisation of a virtual community composed of health professionals and patients affected by chronic low back pain. The community was created as part of a pilot study for promoting self-management of the disease. The article deals with the social and theoretical framework behind the development of the community, as well as with the way health professionals and patients interact on a website specifically designed for the project. A discussion on the evaluation of the results completes the enlightenment of crucial factors for further applications in the field.