Early adolescent lumbar intervertebral disc injury: a case study

Future Research by the Australian Chiropractic Profession: Analysis of Comments and Suggestions From a Nationwide Survey of Academics and Practitioners

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to identify and compare the research priorities of Australian practicing chiropractors and academics across listed research domains and to seek their views on existing chiropractic research strategies. Concurrent objectives were to gain insight into the perspectives on characteristics of research and solicit ideas and suggestions for future research from both groups.

METHODS

This study used a mixed-method research design to collect data using an online survey portal. Australian chiropractic academics (n = 220) and practicing chiropractors who were also members of a nationally representative, practice-based research network database (n = 1680) were invited to participate. Data were collected (February 19, 2019, to May 24, 2019). The free-text data were analyzed primarily via semantic coding and verbatim referential units in cases where the category was an exact match for the textual data. Content analyses of the qualitative data were presented in a tabulated and narrative manner as identified domains. Selected representative examples were provided verbatim.

RESULTS

The response rate for the survey was 44% for full-time equivalent academics, 8% for casuals and part-time chiropractic academics, and 21.5% for Australian Chiropractic Research Network database chiropractic practitioners. Open-text data comprised a narrower focus on musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and opposition or reservations by academics and some practitioners toward the research agenda of those espousing traditional concepts and terminology. Comments from both groups illustrate the strongly held views that characterize divergent factions of the chiropractic profession. Some practitioners were highly critical of the narrow focus and epistemological paradigm of Australian university-based research, while others were strongly supportive of the traditional focus of the Australian Spinal Research Foundation. Australian academics at the 4 university-based programs held the view that MSK and spinal pain, for which some evidence already exists, should be the priority of future research, building on what is known. Practitioners believed that future research should be directed toward expanded areas such as basic science, younger populations, and non-MSK conditions. Respondents were sharply divided on attitudes toward traditional chiropractic terminology, concepts, and philosophy and the utility of future research on these topics.

CONCLUSION

Our qualitative findings suggest there is a division in the Australian chiropractic profession regarding research direction and priorities. This divide exists between academics and researchers and within field practitioners. This study highlights the attitudes, opinions, and perceptions of important stakeholder groups, which should be considered by decision-makers when formulating research policy, strategy, and prioritization of funding.

The development and implementation of an outcomes database for imaging-guided therapeutic musculoskeletal injections

OBJECTIVES

To present the process of creating an imaging-guided injections outcomes database and to reflect on how this database has affected the scientific activities of the radiology department.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The literature was searched to identify studies on the effectiveness of musculoskeletal therapeutic injections, areas where research is lacking, and relevant outcome measures. Validated outcome measures were chosen and tested in a pilot study. Data collection time points of 1 day, 1 week and 1 month post-injection were determined and the post-pilot study postal questionnaires were created. The data collection process began and has been ongoing for over 4 years. Critical reflection on the process and outcomes from the database occurred.

RESULTS

The 9 steps to creating this outcomes database are presented. The numerical rating scale for pain (NRS) and the Patient's Global Impression of Change (PGIC) were identified as the most valid, reliable, and time-effective outcome measures. At most, 50% of patients return their postal questionnaire. The database has facilitated the publication of numerous research projects.

CONCLUSIONS

Setting up an outcomes database is straightforward and productive. The NRS and PGIC were considered the most useful outcome measures. This database facilitated critical reflection on current practice and provides the foundation for several research studies.