A South Australian research project, supported by the CEIH, has uncovered key factors influencing hospitalisation rates for non- specific low back pain (LBP) and sciatica. In emergency departments.
The research, spanning five years across six public hospitals, aims to improve care strategies and reduce unnecessary admissions.
Key findings
The study identified several factors that increase the likelihood of hospitalisation for ED patients with LBP:
- aged 65+ years or older
- presented to ED via ambulance.
- triaged as urgent on arrival to ED
- lived in a higher socioeconomic area
Why this matters?
Understanding these risk factors allows healthcare providers to refine treatment pathways, ensure appropriate care, and potentially reduce hospital burden while enhancing patient outcomes.
The CEIH continues to support research that informs evidence-based healthcare improvements across South Australia.
Publication/citation
Orlando, J.F., Burke, A.L., Beard, M., Guerin, M. and Kumar, S. (2024), Hospitalisations for non-specific low back pain in people presenting to South Australian public hospital emergency departments. Emergency Medicine Australasia.