PCA Deep Dive: Beyond the Pain Score: What Really Prevents Chronic Back Pain

In this episode of the Deep Dive, the focus is on a newly published randomized clinical trial, the PACBACK trial, from The Journal of the American Medical Association. This study examines spinal manipulation and clinician-supported biopsychosocial self-management versus standard medical care in treating acute and subacute low back pain in patients at high risk of chronic disability. The trial's findings emphasize the importance of long-term function over short-term symptom relief, showcasing how conservative, nonpharmacologic approaches, particularly self-management strategies, lead to significant reductions in disability. The episode also delves into the methodologies and tools used in the study, such as the Start Back screening tool, the Wellbein ...