The Institute for Clinical and Economic Review (ICER) has released an Evidence Report assessing the comparative clinical effectiveness of several cognitive and mind-body therapies for treatment of chronic low back and neck pain, including acupuncture, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based stress reduction, yoga, and tai chi.
ICER’s review also assessed the value of these therapies for low back pain, but, due to data limitations, did not include value analyses for neck pain.
The report’s findings suggest that these interventions are safe for patients, and likely offer added benefits beyond usual care for those with chronic low back pain.
However, evidence is insufficient to distinguish between the interventions. Current evidence is generally inadequate to assess their effects for those with neck pain. The Evidence Report will be subject to public deliberation during the Oct. 19 public meeting of the California Technology Assessment Forum (CTAF), one of ICER’s three independent evidence appraisal committees.
The public meeting will be held in Oakland, California, and will also be available by live webcast.
Click here to read the full press release on ICER’s website.
