26A. An Integrative, Evidence-based Algorithm for Spine-related Pain Disorders

Abstract

Focus Areas: Integrative Approaches to Care, Alleviating PainCurrent management practices for low back pain have led to rising costs without evidence of improvement in the quality of care. Low back pain remains a diagnostic and management challenge for practitioners of many types and is now thought to be a leading global cause of disability. Beyond many published clinical practice guidelines, there are emerging evidence-based care-pathways including stratification according to the patient's prognosis, classification-based management, diagnosis-based clinical decision guides, and biopsychosocial models of care. A proposed solution for successfully addressing low back pain is to employ a novel, integrative, biopsychosocial, stratified, and diagnosis-based care pathway, currently in use at a complementary, integrative healthcare university's clinic. The rationale for the development and implementation is described, including a comparison to related models currently in place at other locations. Benefits of this approach include improved patient outcomes, a more effective and efficient medical delivery system, and creation of a sustainable business model for practitioners. Two case studies are incorporated in the session to illustrate the principles of the integrative model.