Zurück zu den Grundlagen: Gesunder Lebensstil reduziert chronische Rückenschmerzen

Low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide, with many treatments such as medication often failing to provide lasting relief. Researchers at the University of Sydney ’s Centre for Rural Health have discovered a potential solution. Their study, published in JAMA Network Open , found that integrating lifestyle support into back pain treatment could reduce disability and improve quality of life.

Study evaluates lifestyle-based outcomes

The randomised controlled trial included 346 participants from across Australia, all of whom had chronic low back pain and at least one lifestyle risk factor such as obesity, poor diet, sedentary habits or smoking. Participants were randomly assigned to one of two groups: the Healthy Lifestyle Program (HeLP) or standardised, guideline-based physiotherapy care to treat their back pain.

HeLP participants received support from physiotherapists, dietitians and telephone health coaches who helped them identify what lifestyle habits might be affecting their back pain, such as weight, inactivity, poor diet, poor sleep, smoking or excessive alcohol consumption. They were then given evidence-based advice to address the lifestyle challenges over a six-month period.

This approach demonstrated several benefits compared to standard care, including reduced disability, with participants scoring an average of 1.3 points lower on the Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (higher scores indicate greater disability). HeLP participants also lost an average of 1.6 kg more than the control group.

Lead investigator Associate Professor Chris Williams said the findings challenge traditional views of back pain treatment: „The solution to back pain needs to focus on more than just the back. Our bodies are not like machines, we are more like ecosystems where many factors interact and determine how we function and feel. Back pain is no exception. If someone has back pain that is not improving, they should expect comprehensive care across multiple health factors, not just a focus on what is happening in their spine. We should be shouting this message from the rooftops.“

„An increasing number of studies have shown that pathologies such as herniated discs and joint degeneration are rarely the cause of long-term back pain,“ said Associate Professor Williams. „The problem is that few people are told about it and even fewer are given the support to focus on the things that affect long-term pain and disability. Too many people are referred for surgery or prescribed drugs that do not help – and may even do more harm.“

Why lifestyle is important for good posture

The study highlights the need for a change in the treatment of back pain, away from pills and procedures and towards considering the lifestyle factors that can make all the difference.

Lead author and University of Sydney Principal Research Officer Dr Emma Mudd highlighted the real impact the program could have.

“Many people with long-term back pain tell us they feel abandoned, often referred for expensive and ineffective treatments without being offered recommended treatments that promote self-management,” said Dr. Mudd.

„By shifting the focus to lifestyle changes and providing simple, supportive interventions, patients feel empowered to take control of their pain. This approach not only improves their symptoms but also increases their overall quality of life.“

Going beyond pain and reducing the risk of chronic diseases

The researchers believe that lifestyle-integrated care, such as the HeLP program, could benefit patients beyond pain management and potentially reduce the risk of other chronic diseases. However, Dr. Mudd noted that global guidelines have not yet fully adopted this approach:

„Our research may influence future updates to back pain guidelines. Patients appreciated the holistic support, and the results speak for themselves.“

„Clinicians treating back pain should consider how to incorporate lifestyle support into their daily care. There seems to be no right or wrong way to do this, as long as the patient feels heard and is part of the decision-making,“ said Associate Professor Williams.

Expert Contact
Associate Professor Chris Williams
University of Sydney
Email: c.williams@sydney.edu.au

Original publication
Emma Mudd, Simon RE Davidson, Steven J. Kamper, Priscilla Viana da Silva, Connor Gleadhill, Rebecca Kate Hodder, Robin Haskins, Bruce Donald, and Christopher M. Williams for the Healthy Lifestyle Program (HeLP) for Chronic Low Back Pain Trial Working Group
Journal: JAMA Network Open
Article title: Healthy Lifestyle Care vs Guideline-Based Care for Low Back Pain
Article publication date: January 10, 2025
DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.53807

Media contact
Thomas Hobson
University of Sydney
Email: thomas.hobson@sydney.edu.au
Phone number (mobile): 0481059932

Source: EurekAlert!