The spine journal : official journal of the North American Spine Society
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Back pain is the most prevalent of musculoskeletal conditions, and back pain sufferers have been identified as high users of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Despite lacking evidence, CAM treatments (e.g., acupuncture, chiropractic, and massage) and CAM products (eg, vitamins, supplements, and aromatherapy oils) for back pain care have become widely available internationally, and CAM use by back pain sufferers has become a significant health service issue. However, to date, there has been no integrative review on CAM use for back pain. ⋯ The review findings provide insights for health-care providers and policy makers on the range of CAM treatments used by back pain sufferers. Conventional medical and CAM practitioners should be aware of back pain sufferers' decision making regarding a range of CAM treatments and be prepared to communicate with patients on safe and effective CAM treatments for back pain.
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Review Meta Analysis
Spinal cord stimulation: a review of the safety literature and proposal for perioperative evaluation and management.
There is currently no consensus on appropriate perioperative management of patients with spinal cord stimulator implants. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered safe under strict labeling conditions. Electrocautery is generally not recommended in these patients but sometimes used despite known risks. ⋯ Spinal cord stimulation is increasingly used in patients with pain of spinal origin, particularly to manage postlaminectomy syndrome. Knowledge of the safety concerns of SCS and appropriate perioperative evaluation and management of the SCS system can reduce risks and improve surgical planning.