One in six Australian's suffer from chronic back pain but a new collaborative trial is aiming to produce a more holistic approach health that challenges traditional treatment methods.
The program, titled HeLP Program for Low Back Pain is currently searching for participants to volunteer.
Hunter New England Population Health's musculoskeletal health team, with the University of Newcastle, and Hunter Medical Research Institute are working together to address issues within the current model of back pain treatment.
The integrated approach will also be working with the John Hunter Hospital's physiotherapy/outpatient department to help patients become more informed and plan for their long-term health.
The trial will focus on more than just back pain, with Research Fellow and program lead, Dr Chris Williams stating that traditional single approach treatments may not be effective.
"Chronic low back pain has many potential causes including lifestyle behaviours like excess weight, smoking, inactivity and the foods you eat,” he said.
“However many people do not receive advice and support to change these when they seek care, and they often end up neglecting their other health needs."
The HeLP trial program will attempt a new approach to aiding patients with chronic back issues by considering the patient's pain in conjecture with their overall health.
The program is open to volunteers who have had ongoing lower back pain for more than three months and also have trouble with smoking, weight, and healthy eating.
If you or someone you know could benefit from the HeLP program you can contact the musculoskeletal health team at HNELHD-MSK@health.nsw.gov.au
