Date of Award

Spring 2023

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (Physician Assistant)

Department

Physician Assistant; College of Health Sciences

First Advisor

Prof. Sophie Farley

Abstract

At some time in their life, 84% of adults worldwide will experience lower back pain.1 Within 4 to 6 weeks, 90% of patients will see resolution or improvement of pain.2 However, for patients who are affected by chronic or severe pain, there may be negative outcomes on many other aspects of their lives. Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is a symptom that may greatly affect day-to-day functioning, sleep, work productivity, and mood. Poorer quality of life, depression, and drug dependency are all associated with CLBP. A comprehensive review from 2018 found strong evidence that patients with chronic pain conditions, regardless of etiology and type, are at increased risk for suicide.3

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prescription opioid overdose related deaths have increased by more than a factor of four times from 1999 to 2017 (from 3,442 deaths to 17,029 deaths).4 Considering the opioid epidemic, many providers are exercising more caution in prescribing opioids; and many patients are reluctant to take narcotic medication despite persistent pain that affects their quality of life. Many patients may also have comorbid conditions that prevent them from taking certain non-opioid pain medications. Therefore, it is paramount to utilize effective treatment to minimize pain for many patients.

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CME:Non-pharmacologic Management of Chronic Lower Back Pain (CLBP)

At some time in their life, 84% of adults worldwide will experience lower back pain.1 Within 4 to 6 weeks, 90% of patients will see resolution or improvement of pain.2 However, for patients who are affected by chronic or severe pain, there may be negative outcomes on many other aspects of their lives. Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is a symptom that may greatly affect day-to-day functioning, sleep, work productivity, and mood. Poorer quality of life, depression, and drug dependency are all associated with CLBP. A comprehensive review from 2018 found strong evidence that patients with chronic pain conditions, regardless of etiology and type, are at increased risk for suicide.3

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, prescription opioid overdose related deaths have increased by more than a factor of four times from 1999 to 2017 (from 3,442 deaths to 17,029 deaths).4 Considering the opioid epidemic, many providers are exercising more caution in prescribing opioids; and many patients are reluctant to take narcotic medication despite persistent pain that affects their quality of life. Many patients may also have comorbid conditions that prevent them from taking certain non-opioid pain medications. Therefore, it is paramount to utilize effective treatment to minimize pain for many patients.