Community-based Participatory Action Research Approach for the Development of an Arabic Culturally Sensitive Pain Neuroscience Education: A Qualitative Focus Group Study with Physical Therapists and Individuals with Chronic Low Back Pain in Lebanon.

<ns3:p>Purpose This study aimed to co-design culturally adapted pain neuroscience education (PNE) materials for a Lebanese population. The developed material aimed to enhance patients’ understanding of pain and its influences, offer strategies for self-management, and promote healthier lifestyles. Methods Employing a community-based participatory action research (PAR) approach, insights were gathered from PTs and male and female patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP), who were the end users of the co-designed product. PAR, rooted in bridging universities and communities, emphasizes the active involvement and actions of individuals within impacted communities, fostering collaboration and engagement throughout the research process. Data from the PAR groups were subjected to reflexive thematic analysis. Results Twelve individuals with CLBP, and eight PTs, participated in the interviews. They represent diverse educational backgrounds, religious affiliations, and regions across Lebanon. Three key themes were identified by exploring the cultural adaptation of PNE material: the ecological validity model (EVM) dimensions, implementation challenges, and lived experiences of CLBP patients, shedding light on their personal and religious perspectives on pain. Conclusion This study emphasizes the need for ongoing refinement and collaboration to effectively implement PNE in diverse populations. Utilizing frameworks such as EVM and the Barrera model ensures alignment with cultural norms while addressing specific cultural contexts such as appearance, pain beliefs, and religious influences. alignment with cultural norms while addressing specific cultural contexts such as appearance, pain beliefs, and religious influences.</ns3:p>