Seattle-based University of Washington researchers studied if patient factors and medical interventions could predict two-year disability and pain of older patients with back pain.
The study included 4,665 patients over 65 years old who attended primary care appointment for back pain. The researchers measured the predictive value of baseline characteristics and the incremental value of interventions between zero-90 days.
The Spine Journal published the study.
Here are seven findings:
1. At two-years follow up, self-reported Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire and back pain on the numerical rating scale improved somewhat.
2. Of the patients, 16 percent experienced no back pain-related disability or pain at the two-year follow up.
3. The study found regression model parameters clarified 40 percent of two-year RDQ variation.
4. The zero-three month RDQ and pain changes enhanced prediction.
5. Researchers found "0-90 day change in each respective outcome and patient confidence in improvement" were the most consistent predictors of RDQ and NRS scores.
6. The study revealed patients saw 50 percent improvement in back pain and 43 percent improvement in disability at the two-year follow up.
7. Researchers found baseline patient factors to be more useful in predicting disability and pain at two-year follow up, as opposed to early interventions.