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The Chiropractic Outcome Study: pain, functional ability and satisfaction with care
M J Verhoef1, S A Page, S C Waddell
1Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Summary
Chiropractic care effectively reduces pain and improves function for patients with moderate to severe back and neck pain. Patient satisfaction is high, particularly with access to care, reinforcing chiropractic benefits.
Area of Science:
- Chiropractic research
- Musculoskeletal health
- Pain management
Background:
- Back and neck pain are common conditions impacting functional ability.
- Patient satisfaction is a key outcome in healthcare.
- Previous studies suggest benefits of chiropractic treatment for spinal pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in pain and functional ability following chiropractic care.
- To assess patient satisfaction with chiropractic treatment.
- To identify patient characteristics influencing treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A follow-up study involving 369 patients with neck and/or back pain.
- Questionnaires administered at the start of treatment and 6 weeks later.
- Data collected from 13 chiropractic practices in Alberta, Canada.
Main Results:
- Greatest pain relief and functional improvement observed in patients with moderate to severe initial pain or disability.
- Patients with acute conditions and those solely treated by chiropractors showed significant benefits.
- High patient satisfaction reported, with access to care being a key positive aspect.
Conclusions:
- Chiropractic care is perceived as effective for resolving or improving pain and functional impairments in patients with back and neck complaints.
- Results support the benefits of chiropractic treatment for spinal pain.
- Patient characteristics influence the degree of improvement and satisfaction.