Investigating the role of cognitive risk factors and underlying neurobiological processes associated with chronic low back pain

This thesis examines the role of cognition and underlying brain mechanisms in the development and persistence of low back pain. The findings indicate impaired cognitive processes related to how we perceive and cope with pain and altered brain activity contribute to the clinical presentation of chronic low back pain. This research therefore suggests that cognition and neurobiological processes may be driving factors for chronic low back pain and could be used as targets for interventions.