The systematic review aimed to identify and evaluate the current core outcome measure sets (COS) used to assess spinal pain and associated pain in the limbs, trunk, abdomen, or pelvis. The study synthesised the key domains across these sets and develop a proposal for an Essential Universal Set (EUS) to be utilised in future research and clinical practice.
This systematic review follows the Cochrane Handbook guidelines and adheres to the PRISMA-P reporting statement. Comprehensive searches were conducted across multiple databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL, as well as grey literature sources and expert consultations. Two independent reviewers assessed study eligibility and quality using predefined criteria. Data extraction was performed to identify core outcome domains, and a thematic analysis was conducted to categorise domains based on anatomical regions, patient-reported outcomes, performance measures, and biopsychosocial factors.
Ten independent core outcome sets were identified and reviewed. Seven core domains were consistently endorsed across more than half of the included COS: patient-rated physical function, pain symptoms (including intensity), quality of life, participation in work or school, emotional function, health status, and participation in general roles. These domains capture critical aspects of spinal pain and its associated conditions, allowing for standardised assessment across various healthcare settings.
The findings of this systematic review provide an evidence base for the development of an Essential Universal Set (EUS) of outcome measures for spinal and associated pain. Standardising these outcome measures is crucial for improving the consistency and quality of research, facilitating meta-analyses, and enabling the development of clinical guidelines. The adoption of a unified EUS across healthcare settings and research will contribute to better patient outcomes and more effective management of spinal pain.
The establishment of a standardised core outcome measure set will streamline the assessment of spinal pain and its associated conditions, providing a foundation for future research, healthcare policy development, and clinical practice. By harmonising outcome measures, this review supports the advancement of evidence-based practices in the management of spinal pain, ultimately improving quality of care for patients globally.
Core sets
Outcome measures
