The cost-effectiveness of spinal care education as a preventive strategy for spinal injury

The objective of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of a spinal care lecture in reducing the number of spinal injury and associated costs in the workplace. A lecture was designed following a workplace inspection to assess the most likely risk factors for injury, to increase employees' awareness of back injury and how it might be avoided. Volunteer subjects, all from the same company, were randomly assigned to a study group (n = 34) and a central group (n = 27). The remaining employees (n = 60) formed a non-intervention (baseline) comparison group. The number and severity of injuries for both groups were monitored over a six-month period prior to and following the lecture. In addition, Oswestry pain and disability questionnaires were collected prior to the lecture and at the six-month follow-up period. The cost of reported back injuries decreased by 57% in the first three months for the educated group when compared to pre-intervention levels. At the six-month follow up, the cost of back injuries remained 40% lower than previous levels.