Raising Healthcare Standards

Contact Us | Glossary | Site Map | Links | Help | Accessibility | Low Graphics |  Text Size: A |  A+ |  A++

Advanced Search

main navigation: 
"Consistently good healthcare which continually improves is our aim."

Low Back Pain HTA Systematic Review

Link opens in new windowLow Back Pain HTA Systematic Review (PDF, 1MB, 2mins 29secs)

About the assessment

Where possible, this Health Technology Assessment (HTA) focused on evidence relating to non-specific acute low back pain. Non-specific low back pain has no specific pathology, commonly has a mechanical cause and varies with posture and over time. Acute low back pain is often associated with tissue damage, with symptoms usually resolving spontaneously within 6 weeks. However, a small proportion (2 - 7%) of people with an acute episode develop a chronic condition and the prognosis for individuals once the pain becomes chronic is poorer. In patients with acute low back pain, yellow flag psychosocial indicators (eg stress, anxiety, depression, inappropriate attitudes and beliefs about back pain, pain behaviour, poor work satisfaction) are used to identify those at risk of developing a chronic condition or disability.

The scientific literature was systematically searched to identify evidence of the clinical and cost effectiveness of service delivery models for the management of acute low back pain. Experts, professional groups and other interested parties were also invited to submit evidence. All evidence was critically appraised. A survey was undertaken to ascertain current service provision for low back pain services in Scotland.

Background

Back pain is one of the most common health problems affecting society, with up to 70% of the population experiencing pain at some point in their lifetime.

It is associated with significant healthcare use and societal cost in terms of work loss and disability, and has been addressed using a variety of management approaches.

Equality & Diversity

NHS Quality Improvement Scotland (NHS QIS) is committed to equa
lity and diversity. We have assessed this report for likely impact on the six equality groups defined by

age, disability, gender, race, religion/belief and sexual orientation.

 Further information

Hard copies of the report will be distributed in Spring 2008. For further information, or to receive a copy of the published report, please contact Jennifer Graham at JenniferGraham@nhs.net.

Useful Links

Management of low back pain meeting
Dunblane Hydro Hotel,Dunblane, Perthshire