Contributed by Kira Baca, MS, DC – Post-doctoral Research Scholar March 28, 2022 A diagnostic process incorporating a biopsychosocial approach addresses three main questions: (1) Are the patient’s symptoms reflective a visceral disorder or a serious or potentially life threatening condition; (2) from where the patient’s pain is arising; (3) what has gone wrong with this person that would cause the pain experience to develop and persist?2 The focus of this study was placed on developing a resource to help clinicians answer the 2nd question, since this information is needed to inform and contextualize answers to questions 1 and 3....

Seeing a need to standardize and simplify the diagnostic process for low back pain, investigators at the Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research, developed a diagnostic classification system for conditions causing chronic low back pain (LBP). In this article, authors describe how they assembled current literature findings into a standardized, user-friendly diagnostic classification system incorporating an evidence-based diagnostic category checklist for use in both chiropractic research and in general clinical practice. Take Home Message This article describes an efficient in-office clinical exam and checklist that can be used as a tool for aiding the diagnosis of LBP, based on research evidence....

Low back pain in both civilian and military populations is costly to treat, results in substantial loss of productivity, and negatively impacts quality of life. In this study, Chiropractic care was added to the Standard Medical Care model for patients suffering from low back pain and seeking care within a United States military health-care system. This study sought to ascertain whether back pain and physical functioning improved for patients receiving both types of care compared with patients receiving only standard medical care. The study was conducted between February 2008 and June 2009. Ninety-one active-duty military personnel with low back pain...

In this study, authors studied survey data of 1,057 Medicare beneficiaries, who were at least 70 years of age, to compare the effectiveness of treatment for uncomplicated back conditions. The two treatment categories were chiropractic or medical care. Services provided to patients, Activities of Daily Living, Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (activities allowing for independent living within a community but not necessary for fundamental function), and Lower Body Function were studied over a two-year period. The authors found: Chiropractic visits were greater in number and longer in duration than those of medical providers Chiropractic care was protective against declines in...

Estimates suggest over 70% of people in the US are affected by neck pain at some time in their lives. Neck pain can be severe enough to negatively impact quality of life and the ability to work. However, little research has been conducted on the comparative effectiveness of different treatment options. A research study conducted by Bronfort and colleagues focused on changes in acute and subacute neck pain in response to 3 different treatments: Chiropractic care including spinal manipulation, advice to stay active or modify activity, and adjunct therapy as needed Medication: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, or narcotics for those...
