This seminar provides an in-depth overview of spine-related disorders, emphasizing their global prevalence, the associated healthcare costs, and the resulting economic and societal impact. Participants will learn about the multifactorial, biopsychosocial nature of spine pain, exploring how psychological and sociological factors can exacerbate or mitigate its effects. Ultimately, the course highlights the need for a holistic approach to treatment and management that addresses both biological and non-biological determinants of health.

By the end of this seminar, participants should be able to:
a.    Describe the prevalence and impact of spine-related disorders on healthcare expenditures and disability rates and analyze their effect on key stakeholders.
b.    Understand the biopsychosocial model of pain and its significance in the context of spine-related disorders.
c.    Identify and explain how psychological, behavioral, and sociological determinants of health can exacerbate the impact of spine-related disorders.
 

6.    Course Outline:
a.    Introduction to Spine Pain as a Public Health Issue
i    Definition of spine-related disorders
ii    Global and U.S. prevalence rates for low back and neck pain
iii    Rationale for considering spine pain as a priority in public health
b.    Disability Metrics and Economic Burden
i    Years Lived with Disability (YLDs) and Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALYs)
ii    Comparative analysis of spine pain against other high-cost conditions
iii    Breakdown of costs for private vs. public insurers

c.    Impact on Multiple Stakeholders
i    Individual burden: healthcare expenses, work limitations, mental health
ii    Families and caregivers: shifts in responsibilities, financial distress, emotional strain
iii    Employers: absenteeism, presenteeism, workers’ compensation claims
iv    Insurers: high payouts for spine-related claims
d.    Biopsychosocial Model of Spine Pain
i    Biological interventions: medication, manipulation, exercise, injections, surgery
ii    Psychological and behavioral factors: fear-avoidance, catastrophizing, depression, substance abuse
iii    Sociological determinants: gender, race/ethnicity, education, socioeconomic status, workplace ergonomics
e.    Conclusion and Future Directions
i    Summary of key takeaways
ii    Importance of addressing both biomedical and psychosocial components
iii    Participant reflections on the role chiropractors will play