Rethinking Back Pain Treatment: New Evidence Challenges Current Approaches
Low back pain is a leading cause of disability globally, and conventional treatments like medication often fail to provide long-term relief. However, researchers at the University of Sydney’s Centre for Rural Health have found a promising new approach. Their study, published in JAMA Network Open, shows that incorporating lifestyle support into back pain treatment can reduce disability and enhance quality of life.
The study involved 346 participants across Australia, all suffering from chronic low back pain and at least one lifestyle risk factor, such as obesity or smoking. They were randomly assigned to either the “Healthy Lifestyle Program (HeLP)” or standard physiotherapy care.
Participants in the HeLP group received support from physiotherapists, dietitians, and health coaches who helped identify lifestyle habits contributing to their pain. Over six months, they received evidence-based advice on improving factors like weight, diet, inactivity, and smoking.
Results: Lifestyle Integration Shows Significant Benefits The HeLP approach resulted in noticeable improvements. Participants showed reduced disability, with an average 1.3-point improvement on the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire. They also lost an average of 1.6 kg more than the control group.
Chief Investigator Associate Professor Chris Williams explained that these findings challenge traditional back pain management. He emphasized that back pain treatment should consider the whole body, not just the spine.
Rethinking Back Pain: From Surgery to Lifestyle Solutions
Rethinking Back Pain Treatments Associate Professor Williams highlighted that conditions like bulging discs and joint degeneration are rarely the main cause of long-term back pain. Yet, patients are often prescribed ineffective treatments or referred for surgery. The study advocates shifting focus from pills and procedures to addressing lifestyle factors that significantly impact pain and disability.
Dr. Emma Mudd, lead author of the study, pointed out the real-world impact of the program, noting that many patients feel abandoned when given ineffective treatments. She believes that shifting focus to lifestyle changes empowers patients, improving both their symptoms and overall quality of life.
The researchers suggest that integrating lifestyle support into back pain care could also reduce risks for other chronic diseases. While global guidelines have yet to fully adopt this approach, Dr. Mudd hopes their research will influence future updates.
Associate Professor Williams added that clinicians should consider integrating lifestyle support into their routine care, as patients value holistic support and active involvement in decision-making.
Read Original Article: Scitechdaily
Read More: Popular Sleeping Pill May Block the Brain’s Essential Cleaning Cycle
