2nd Quarter, 2010

4th Quarter, 2009

3rd Quarter, 2009

Patients with Low-Back Pan Not Getting the Best Care
Study Reveals Less Than Optimal Management of Low Back Pain

A recent study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine reported a gap between established evidence-based guidelines and the practice patterns of primary care physicians when it comes to the management of patients with low back pain. The study found that despite recommendations to refrain from obtaining diagnostic imaging and prescribing narcotics, the prescription of expensive diagnostic test and ineffective treatments as first line interventions has increased since the guidelines were published.

The evidence-based guidelines result in better outcomes and reduced cost in the care of patients with low back pain. The lack of adherence to guidelines is a significant concern, perhaps contributing to the over $50 Billion the United States spends on the management of low back pain each year.

The study reported that one of the most important first line interventions supported in the guidelines, patient education and advice to stay active, was only given to 20% of patients. Close to 50% of patients with low back pain were sent for imaging studies and prescribed opioid analgesics. Less than 18% of patients were referred to allied health specialists like physical therapists. Physical Therapy is supported as an effective intervention for acute, sub-acute, and chronic low back pain in the clinical practice guidelines. “Physical therapists have demonstrated a significant reduction in pain and disability for individuals with low back pain,” says Biagio Mazza, Physical Therapist and Owner of Elite Physical Therapy.