Year: 2026
Type: editorial
Abstract: Spine disorders are one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, with lumbar spine conditions such as chronic low back pain (CLBP) and lumbar spinal stenosis among the most common. Despite a substantial body or research, clinical care for these patients has seen little advancement and associated healthcare costs are exorbitant. To better serve both patients and healthcare systems, some posit that new treatments rooted in cutting-edge science are urgently needed. In the meantime, how can we refine our diagnostics strategies and care delivery models to optimize patient outcomes and reduce healthcare utilization? This Research Topic, "Highlights in Spine Disorders," presents glimpses into efforts to address these critical challenges.Dougherty & Beehler present a theory-driven approach to CLBP management, conceptualizing chronic pain as a biopsychosocial syndrome. Their practical program leverages a shared workspace within the electronic medical record to facilitate coordinated care between chiropractic and behavioral health practitioners. The initiative, titled "Joining Forces" is described by the authors as an efficient model for delivering multidisciplinary care grounded in chronic pain theory, using existing clinical resources. As the authors highlight, effective CLBP management necessitates addressing both pathoanatomic and psychosocial contributors to pain and disability. Lastly, Surapuchong & Pongpirul brief research report evaluated whether radiological parameters measured on standing whole-spine radiographs (e.g., sagittal vertical axis, SVA) are associated with MRI-defined severity of lumbar disc herniation. While SVA showed an association with severe canal compromised, its limited accuracy suggests that it should not be used as exclusive screening tool but may still offer supportive information for referral decisions in resource-limited settings.As editors, we hope the novel approaches presented in these papers will inspire others to think outside the box in ways that challenge existing paradigms and improve outcomes for the countess individuals who continue to suffer from spinal disorders, as well as the healthcare systems that deliver their care.
Authors: Debra K. Weiner, Maryse Fortin
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,353
OpenAlex ID: W7154419802
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