The transition from a new episode of back pain to persistent pain and disability in older adults
Year: 2014
Type: dissertation
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: OBJECTIVES: Little research has investigated the long-term prognosis of back pain in older adults.We report the prognosis of older adults presenting to a new primary visit for back pain by describing pain intensity, functional status, pain interference with activity and resolution of back pain symptoms over 12 months.DESIGN: Prospective, inception cohort study SETTING: Participants are from primary care settings of three integrated healthcare systems in the United States that participated in the Back pain Outcomes using Longitudinal Data (BOLD) registry.PARTICIPANTS: 4038 of 5,239 adults ≥65 years from the BOLD registry who had reached their 12 month follow-up date by June 2013.MEASUREMENTS: Baseline measurements include: demographic characteristics, the EQ-5D, duration of back pain, expectation for recovery, depression, and anxiety.Patient reported outcomes, including back related functional status [Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)], numerical rating scale of pain, pain interference, and resolution of back pain were collected at baseline, 3, 6 and 12 months.RESULTS: Small improvements in outcomes occurred over 12 months.The mean RMDQ decreased from 9.5 [standard deviation (SD) 6.5] at baseline to 8.3 (SD 6.8) at 12 months.Mean back pain intensity decreased by 1.4 points, from 5.0 (SD 2.8) at baseline to 3.6 (SD 2.7).Only 22.6% of participants reported that their back pain had resolved at 12 months.Improvements in function and interference with activity over 12 months differed by age and back pain duration.
Author: Sean D. Rundell
Language: English
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2789720835