RESUMEN
To investigate the respective contribution of various biologic and psychosocial factors, especially Health Related Quality of Life [HRQOL] as a main outcome, in the natural history of acute low back pain [LBP] and to evaluate the impact of this condition on HRQOL. In a prospective cohort study For 24 weeks, 150 patients were assessed at an outpatient clinic in Korea consulting for low back and confirmed disc herniation duration at inclusion and treated with treatment package comprised of herbal medicines, acupuncture, bee venom acupuncture, and a Korean version of spinal manipulation [Chuna]. Study participants were evaluated at baseline and every 4 weeks for 24 weeks. Low back intensity levels were measured on a visual analog scale [0-10], back function was evaluated with the Oswestry Disability Index [0-100], disability assessed by HRQOL assessed by the short form 36 health survey [0-100 in 8 different sub-categories]. Out of 150 patients, 128 completed the 24 weeks of traditional therapy. Patients reported improvements SF-36 outcome measures. At the completion of the study, low back pain scores improved by a mean of 3.3 [95% CI = 2.8 to 3.8]. According to the results of our modeling, low back intensity level, back function and BMI measures had significant effects on quality of life during study. Interpreting the coefficients of modeling, the impact of the decreasing acute LBP episode on HRQOL by VAS and ODI outcomes, was high and important. This study highlights the large contribution of integrative package therapy as an effective preventive method for improving LBP patient's HRQOL
RESUMEN
To assess the current level of acceptance in the United States of complementary and alternative medicine, recent research into the prevalence, acceptance, accessibility, and recognition of complementary and alternative therapies were reviewed. Several signs point to an increasing acceptance of complementary and alternative medicine in the United States; the use of complementary and alternative medicine is significantly increasing, many aspects of Chinese medicine and Ayurveda are becoming mainstream, practitioners in the United States are beginning to be licensed, and insurance companies are beginning to cover some complementary and alternative therapies. Remaining challenges to true acceptance include the restrictive Western mindset, the absence of published studies, a lack of consistent manufacturing processes and quality standards, and a fear of adulteration. Although the field still faces many challenges, alternative and complementary medicine, including Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, is becoming more accepted and accessible in the United States.