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BACKGROUND	The efficacy of functional restoration programs for the treatment of chronic back pain is well documented .
BACKGROUND	Nevertheless , there are only a few such centres in Germany and few trials have been conducted in German-speaking regions to demonstrate that implementing such programs in everyday clinical settings with large numbers of patients is just as effective as in a research setting .
BACKGROUND	The present study examined whether the positive effects of such programs can also be observed in the clinically relevant context of a standardized day clinic treatment regimen .
METHODS	A total of 681 back pain patients in 2 German cities were examined at 4 measurement points ( before and immediately after the program , as well as 6 and 12 months after treatment ) using a comprehensive questionnaire on perceived pain and symptoms of anxiety and depression , as well as the work situation .
RESULTS	In both cities significant and long-term improvements in back pain , pain-related impairment and degree of chronification were observed , as well as a high return-to-work rate after treatment .
RESULTS	Hence , the quality of such programs was also confirmed for a large patient population .

