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Applied Health Economics and Health Policy
Published in: Applied Health Economics and Health Policy 2/2017

01-04-2017 | Systematic Review

Cost-Effectiveness of Non-Invasive and Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Low Back Pain: a Systematic Literature Review

Authors: Lazaros Andronis, Philip Kinghorn, Suyin Qiao, David G. T. Whitehurst, Susie Durrell, Hugh McLeod

Published in: Applied Health Economics and Health Policy | Issue 2/2017

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Abstract

Background

Low back pain (LBP) is a major health problem, having a substantial effect on peoples’ quality of life and placing a significant economic burden on healthcare systems and, more broadly, societies. Many interventions to alleviate LBP are available but their cost effectiveness is unclear.

Objectives

To identify, document and appraise studies reporting on the cost effectiveness of non-invasive and non-pharmacological treatment options for LBP.

Methods

Relevant studies were identified through systematic searches in bibliographic databases (EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL and the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database), ‘similar article’ searches and reference list scanning. Study selection was carried out by three assessors, independently. Study quality was assessed using the Consensus on Health Economic Criteria checklist. Data were extracted using customized extraction forms.

Results

Thirty-three studies were identified. Study interventions were categorised as: (1) combined physical exercise and psychological therapy, (2) physical exercise therapy only, (3) information and education, and (4) manual therapy. Interventions assessed within each category varied in terms of their components and delivery. In general, combined physical and psychological treatments, information and education interventions, and manual therapies appeared to be cost effective when compared with the study-specific comparators. There is inconsistent evidence around the cost effectiveness of physical exercise programmes as a whole, with yoga, but not group exercise, being cost effective.

Conclusions

The identified evidence suggests that combined physical and psychological treatments, medical yoga, information and education programmes, spinal manipulation and acupuncture are likely to be cost-effective options for LBP.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Cost-Effectiveness of Non-Invasive and Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Low Back Pain: a Systematic Literature Review
Authors
Lazaros Andronis
Philip Kinghorn
Suyin Qiao
David G. T. Whitehurst
Susie Durrell
Hugh McLeod
Publication date
01-04-2017
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
Applied Health Economics and Health Policy / Issue 2/2017
Print ISSN: 1175-5652
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1896
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s40258-016-0268-8

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