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Survey based investigation into general practitioner referral patterns for spinal manipulative therapy
Annabel Kier1, Matthew George2, Peter W McCarthy1
1Welsh Institute of Chiropractic, University of South Wales, Treforest, Pontypridd CF38 2TE, UK.
Chiropractic & Manual Therapies
|May 31, 2013
Summary
General Practitioners (GPs) in Wales utilize Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) for low back pain (LBP) consistent with guidelines. While physiotherapy is the primary referral, over 40% would consider osteopathy or chiropractic.
Area of Science:
- Musculoskeletal Medicine
- General Practice
- Evidence-Based Healthcare
Background:
- Physiotherapy, Chiropractic, and Osteopathy are statutory regulated professions in the UK.
- Guidelines support Spinal Manipulative Therapy (SMT) for low back pain (LBP).
- General Practitioner (GP) referral patterns to SMT practitioners were largely unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate GP referral patterns and personal utilization of SMT.
- To understand GP decision-making regarding SMT referrals for low back pain.
Main Methods:
- A piloted questionnaire was distributed to 385 GPs in Wales (approx. 20% of the GP population).
- Data collected included GP demographics, patient referral to SMT, and personal SMT utilization.
- Response rate was 50.8% (182 completed questionnaires).
Main Results:
- 72% of GPs had referred patients to SMT; 13% would consider referring if they hadn't.
- 48% of GPs had personally sought SMT; 56% of those who hadn't would consider it.
- Physiotherapy was the most common referral, but over 40% preferred osteopathy or chiropractic.
Conclusions:
- GPs generally align with guidelines regarding low back pain management and SMT use.
- A significant proportion of GPs would refer to osteopathy or chiropractic, indicating diverse SMT utilization.
- Further research is needed on SMT alternatives and referral decision criteria.
