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DON'T RELY ON SMARTPHONE APPS TO TREAT BACK PAIN

By: Dr. Donna A. Pontoriero, Chiropractor


University of Sydney researchers have found that smartphone apps for treating back pain have questionable value as they are generally of poor quailty, and have not been rigorously evaluated.

Published in Best Practice & Research: Clinical Rheumatology, the study found there has not been thorough evaluation of apps for the self-management of back pain, and there is no guidance for consumers on how to select high-quality, evidence-based apps.

The study reviewed 61 current apps specifically designed to help consumers self-manage their back pain and evaluated therir content, functionality, quality, and whether they recommend evidence-based interventions. The researches found more than 700 apps that use the keyword "back pain".

Millions of people worldwide use these apps, however here is no independent guidance to help consumers identify which ones are safe and of high quality.

In this study, apps generally offered questionable and poor quality information.

The best alternative to do-it-yourself apps: Doctors of Chiropractic (chiropractors). Chiropractors are trained in alleviating lower back pain and specializing in doing so. They can offer a range of non-drug therapies for back pain and recommend exercises and important lifestyle changes to help prevent future back pain and injury.


Please contact our office if you would like further evaluation on your condition.

Dr. Donna Pontoriero can be reached at 299 Franklin Ave, Nutley NJ 07110, 973-235-9393.