This week's Spinal Columns presents findings from Alison Rushton on approaches to neck pain and recovery from lumbar surgery. We look at the development of an exercise program for chronic neck pain that was co-created with patients to address effectiveness and engagement. Also featured are the varied perspectives of patients following lumbar discectomy, from optimism about the future to fear of symptom recurrence. A pilot clinical trial further examines chronic neck pain, comparing recovery outcomes between an active behavioural physiotherapy intervention and a standard physiotherapy approach.

People with chronic neck pain are often prescribed exercises, but these programs can be ineffective and difficult for patients to follow. Researchers worked with patients to review scientific studies, clinical guidelines, and expert consensus to co-develop a new neck exercise program.

Supporting patients after a common type of lower back surgery requires insight into their individual views, experiences, and expectations. To gain this understanding, researchers conducted and analyzed interviews with 14 patients who had undergone the procedure at one UK spinal center.

Chronic non-specific neck pain is a public health problem that causes pain and disability. Researchers conducted a clinical trial with 40 participants in Thailand comparing an active behavioural physiotherapy intervention to a standard physiotherapy intervention.