IngentaConnect The Biopsychosocial Classification of Non-Specific Low Back Pain:...

Authors: McCarthy, Christopher J.; Arnall, Frances A.; Strimpakos, Nikolaos; Freemont, Anthony; Oldham, Jacqueline A.

Source: Physical Therapy Reviews, Volume 9, Number 1, March 2004 , pp. 17-30(14)

Publisher: Maney Publishing

Abstract:

Study design: Numerous authors have attempted to sub-classify low back pain in order that valid homogenous subsets of low back pain presentations might be recognised. This review systematically appraises these papers.

Methods: Medline, Embase, Cinahl, AMED and PEDro electronic databases were searched with subsequent hand searching of bibliographies. Papers were included between June 1983 and June 2003. Two reviewers independently reviewed 32 papers using a standard scoring criteria for assessment. A third reviewer mediated disagreements.

Results: Thirty-two papers were reviewed, with classification systems being grouped by method of classification. Classification has been attempted by implication of patho-anatomical source, by clinical features, by psychological features, by health and work status and in one case by a biopsychosocial weighting system. Scores were generally higher for systems using a statistical cluster analysis approach to classification than a judgemental approach. Both approaches have specific advantages and disadvantages with a synthesis of both methodologies being most likely to generate an optimal classification system.

Conclusions: The classification of NSLBP has traditionally involved the use of one paradigm. In the present era of biopsychosocial management of NSLBP, there is a need for an integrated classification system that will allow rational assessment of NSLBP from biomedical, psychological and social constructs.

The full text electronic article is available for purchase. You will be able to download the full text electronic article after payment.

$51.00 plus tax Refund Policy

The Biopsychosocial Classification of Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review