Lifestyle support is promising to reduce chronic lower back pain disorders

Back pain is a major cause of disorders around the world, with many treatments, such as drugs, and often fail to provide permanent relief. Researchers at the Rural Health Centre at the University of Sydney have identified possible solutions. Their research published in JAMA Network Open found that integration of lifestyle support into back painkillers can reduce disorders and improve quality of life.

The randomized controlled trial includes 346 participants across Australia, all with chronic back pain and at least one lifestyle risk factor, including obesity, poor diet, sedentary habits and smoking. did. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Because “Healthy Lifestyle Program (help)” or standard guidelines-based physical therapy care manages lower back pain.

Participants received support from physical therapists, nutritionists, and telephone health coaches, which lifestyle habits affect back pain, including weight, inactivity, poor diet, poor sleep, smoking, excessive alcohol use. Helped to resolve what could be given. Evidence-based advice was then provided over six months to address lifestyle challenges.

This approach showed several benefits compared to standard care including reduced disability, with participants earning an average of 1.3 points lower in the Roland Morris Disorder Survey (higher scores, higher disability). is shown). Additionally, participants lost an average of 1.6 kg more than the control group.

Associate Professor Chris Williams explained that the findings challenge the traditional views of managing back pain.

“The need to resolve back pain requires focusing more than the back. Our bodies aren’t like machines. We have a lot of factors that interact and determine how we work. It’s like an ecosystem. It won’t get better, they should not only shout this message from the roof, but also expect to get comprehensive care for various health factors.

Increasing studies have shown that pathologies such as swollen discs and joint degeneration are not the causes of long-term low back pain. The problem is that few people say this, and even fewer people are given the support to focus on what affects long-term pain and disability. Too many people are referred to surgery or prescribed medications, which can not help and lead to more harm. ”

Associate Professor Chris Williams, University of Sydney

This study highlights the need for a shift in treatment for lower back pain, the need to move away from pills and procedures, and address lifestyle factors that can make all the difference.

Lead author and Senior Research Director, University of Sydney, Dr. Emma Madd highlighted the real-world impacts that the program may have.

“Many people with long-term back pain are often referred for high-cost, ineffective treatments without being offered recommended treatments that promote self-management. I feel it,” Dr. Madd said.

“By shifting focus to providing simple and supportive interventions, including lifestyle changes, patients feel empowered to control pain. This approach only improves symptoms. It improves overall quality of life without it.”

Researchers believe that lifestyle integrated care, like help programs, can benefit patients beyond pain management and reduce the risk of other chronic diseases. However, Dr. Madd noted that global guidelines have not yet fully embraced this approach.

“Our research could have an impact on future updates to back pain guidelines. Patients appreciate overall support, and the results speak for themselves.”

“Clinicians treating back pain should consider how lifestyle support is integrated into daily care. As long as the patient feels they are listening, it’s right to do this. There doesn’t seem to be a way or a wrong way. They’re part of the decision-making,” Associate Professor Williams said.