Real-World Effect of a Digitally Delivered Conservative Musculoskeletal Care Program on Spinal Diagnostic Imaging Utilization in a Commercially Insured Population with Chronic Back Pain.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Conservative, noninvasive musculoskeletal treatment delivered digitally has demonstrated similar or better effectiveness in managing and reducing chronic back pain, compared to in-person care. However, there is limited evidence whether digital care reduces future spinal diagnostic imaging visits.

Objectives

The primary goal was to examine the associations between participating in a digital conservative musculoskeletal care program for back pain and subsequent spinal diagnostic imaging use.

Methods

Using medical claims data from a US commercial health plan database, this retrospective, secondary data analysis compared spinal diagnostic imaging visits among a group of digital program participants who had over 12 weeks of back pain to matched patients who only

SUBMITTER: Lu L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12629400 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature