Complementing or conflicting? A qualitative study of osteopaths' perceptions of NICE low back pain and sciatica guidelines in the UK. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Inman, John; Thomson, Oliver P.
• Is Part Of: International journal of osteopathic medicine. Volume 31(2019)
• Page Start: 7
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Low back pain -- Osteopathy -- Osteopathic Medicine -- Clinical guidance -- Evidence-based practice -- Clinical decision-making; Osteopathic medicine -- Periodicals; Osteopathic Medicine -- Periodicals; 615.53305
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijosm.2019.01.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-0689

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) have been developed to improve standards of healthcare delivery and are associated with better clinical outcomes. In the UK, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) produced guidelines for the treatment of low back pain and sciatica. However, guideline resistant attitudes have been demonstrated by healthcare professionals, including osteopaths. Methods: A qualitative study design was chosen, utilising constructivist grounded theory method as a framework to explore osteopaths' perceptions of NICE low back pain and sciatica guidelines in the UK. Seven participants were interviewed, with their interviews transcribed and coded. Results: Osteopaths' perceptions of NICE Low Back Pain and Sciatica guidelines are influenced by their conception of uncertainty in the clinical environment, their views of knowledge, approach to clinical decision-making and their professional identity. Conclusions: Osteopaths' views of NICE low back pain and sciatica guidelines are varied. Some of these views of LBP guidelines may act as obstacles to their implementation. Pre- and post- osteopathy registration educational strategies should aim to facilitate positive attitudes towards the use of clinical guidance abd the utilisation CPGs in clinical practice. Highlights: Evidence-based guidelines for LBP result in clinically and cost-effective care. Osteopaths' views of LBP guidelines range from positive to negative and sceptical. Osteopaths' views of LBP guidelines may act as barriers to their implementation.