Application of variance ratios to assess heterogeneity of spinal manipulative therapy for chronic low back pain: A meta-epidemiological study.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

To compare the pooled estimates and variability in pain and function outcomes for spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) versus sham SMT in randomized clinical trials (RCTs), which informs the potential for heterogeneity of treatment effect.

Design

Meta-epidemiological study.

Literature search

We used results from the previous Cochrane review and meta-analysis and performed updated electronic searches from May 2018 to June 2025.

Study selection criteria

RCTs comparing SMT to sham SMT for chronic low back pain.

Data synthesis

For the meta-epidemiological analysis, we estimated the variance ratios of pain and function outcomes for both pooled results and individual trials. Variance ratio statistically different than 0 indicate greater variability in o

SUBMITTER: Babitts A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12788167 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature