Optimising Back Health: Bournemouth Chiropractic Embraces WHO Guidelines

World Health Organisation Guidelines for Chronic Back Pain

Bournemouth Chiropractic: Back Pain & WHO Guidelines Explained

By Leslie Budzynski DC ~ BCA Registered Chiropractor (BCA Reg. No. 0072)  since 1987 & GCC Registered Chiropractor (GCC Reg. No. 00043) since 1999 | Bournemouth Chiropractic

In December 2023, the World Health Organisation (WHO) introduced a groundbreaking guideline for managing Chronic Primary Low Back Pain (CPLBP) in adults, emphasising non-surgical interventions to enhance health outcomes.

This is Where Chiropractic Comes in

This important WHO guideline was developed with contributions from chiropractors worldwide and is an important step forward in addressing musculoskeletal conditions (MSK). In the UK, low back pain affects 17 million people, making it the leading cause of disability resulting in time off work and daily life.

The prevalence of musculoskeletal  (MSK) issues around the world is on the rise and faces the added challenge of factors like population growth, ageing and increased risk factors caused by changing lifestyles. The need for a systematic approach has been underscored by researchers like Dr. Sidney Rubinstein and Professor Richard Brown.

For a detailed breakdown of how these guidelines translate into practical treatment from a chiropractic perspective, have a read of our more in-depth blog post on low back pain: understanding it, treating it, and taking control. Shining a light on the positive impacts of a course of chiropractic care for almost all levels of pain and discomfort that impact daily life in any way.

The British Chiropractic Association supports these WHO Guidelines

BCA recently hosted a fascinating webinar with Professor Richard Brown, highlighting the importance of the WHO guideline in clinical practice.

The guideline offers conditional recommendations which favour exercises, health education, spinal manipulation and this is where a chiropractor steps in and needling therapies which means dry needling or acupuncture, both of which I am qualified in for CPLBP (chronic primary low back pain) management. All the while trying to avoid, if possible, the use of certain pharmacological interventions, longterm painkillers and more invasive treatments such as surgery or injections.

The WHO guideline aligns with the BCA‘s commitment to evidence informed, person centred and equitable care. All in all, embracing the changing landscape in public health policies. The British Chiropractic Association  encourages chiropractors to prioritise valid, evidence informed and effective patient care.

Bournemouth Chiropractic: Back Pain & WHO Guidelines Explained

Here at my clinic I emphasise and fully support the WHO and BCA which is backed by robust, multi-disciplinary research.

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are a huge burden on our society and  I explore the subject further and offer some useful advice fully explained in Chiropractic Awareness Week post, including some up to date statistics on how common these conditions really are.

Looking into the near future, in a perfect world the healthcare community will evolve to prioritise musculoskeletal (MSK) health. My goal is that Bournemouth Chiropractic stands as a fine example of core principles, incorporating WHO guidelines and ensuring the delivery of consistently high quality care for patients with chronic low back pain from Bournemouth and Poole.

Treatment alone is only part of the picture, Life has a way of being multi faceted and complicated. Our post on chiropractic health and the four pillars looks at how lifestyle factors support and effect long-term recovery and general wellbeing.

Medical Disclaimer

This post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual circumstances vary and the information provided here may not apply to your specific situation. If you have experienced a recent fall, suspect a fracture, have lost consciousness, or are experiencing sudden weakness, numbness, or difficulty walking, please seek urgent medical attention. If you have a diagnosed condition such as osteoporosis, a neurological condition, or are taking blood-thinning medication, please inform your practitioner before beginning any new treatment or exercise programme. Leslie Budzynski is a registered member of the British Chiropractic Association (BCA) and the General Chiropractic Council (GCC). You can verify Leslie’s registration at any time on the GCC’s online register

References

1. WHO. Guideline for non-surgical management of chronic primary low back pain in adults. 2023. who.int/publications/i/item/9789240081789
2. Briggs AM et al. The need for adaptable global guidance in health systems strengthening for musculoskeletal health. Global Health Res Policy, 2021;6:24. doi:10.1186/s41256-021-00201-7
3. Hoy DG et al. Reflecting on the global burden of musculoskeletal conditions. Ann Rheum Dis, 2015;74(1):4–7. doi:10.1136/annrheumdis-2014-205393
4. PHE. Health Profile for England 2021. fingertips.phe.org.uk/static-reports/health-profile-for-england/hpfe_report.html
5. Briggs AM et al. (G-MUSC). Towards a global strategy to improve musculoskeletal health. 2021. gmusc.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Final-report-with-metadata.pdf