Objective
To summarise outcome domains and patient-reported outcome measures used in randomised controlled trials involving older adults with non-specific low back pain.
Methods
Seven databases were searched from inception to January 2025. Two independent reviewers screened articles, extracted data and categorised patient-reported outcome measures into outcome domains using the Dodd et al. 38-item framework, where pain outcomes for non-specific pain are classified as ‘general outcome’, which we have relabelled as ‘pain’ for clarity. Frequencies of patient-reported outcome measure use and domain coverage were analysed. Adherence to core outcome set domains (physical functioning, pain and health-related quality of life) and core outcome measurement set for non-specific low back pain was evaluated.
Results
From 57 included trials, 74 patient-reported outcome measures were identified across nine outcome domains. Physical functioning (n=80, 36%) and pain (n=57, 26%) were the most frequently assessed. The most frequently used patient-reported outcome measures were the Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire and the Visual Analogue Scale. Measures for physical functioning, pain and health-related quality of life were used in 91%, 86% and 23% of studies, respectively. Only 14% addressed all three-core outcome set domains; none adhered fully to the core outcome measurement set.
Conclusions
Trials involving older adults with non-specific low back pain mainly evaluated pain and physical functioning, with limited coverage of other patient-centred domains. Future research should prioritise: (i) standardising outcome measurement with valid, reliable and responsive instruments; and (ii) developing and validating comprehensive, multi-domain outcome measures.
Tony S H Chiu, Jae Q J Liu, Edmond C M Wong, Jeffrey C Y Ng, Alessandro Chiarotto, Katie de Luca, Richard Xu, Fabianna de Jesus-Moraleida, Manuela L Ferreira, Arnold Y L Wong
Disease Category: Orthopaedics & trauma
Disease Name: Low back pain
Age Range: 60 - 120
Sex: Either
Nature of Intervention: Any
- COS uptake study
- Systematic review of outcomes measured in trials
- Systematic review