Millions of people worldwide use back pain apps, however no independent guidance is available to help consumers identify which ones are safe and of high quality, a new study has found.
Millions of people worldwide use back pain apps, however no independent guidance is available to help consumers identify which ones are safe and of high quality, a new study has found.
University of Sydney researchers have found that smartphone apps for treating back pain have questionable value as they are generally of poor quality, and have not been rigorously evaluated.
Published in Best Practice & Research: Clinical Rheumatology, the study found there has not been thorough evaluation of apps for the self-management of back pain and there is no guidance for consumers on how to select high-quality, evidence-based apps.
Low back pain is a major global public health issue and the leading cause of disability in most countries. Back pain affects 4 million people in Australia, costing the healthcare system $4.8 billion each year.
Read more at University of Sydney
