What were we asked to look at?

We have been asked to make recommendations to NHS Scotland on the following questions:

1. Is radiofrequency denervation effective, safe and cost effective for treating chronic non-malignant joint pain in adults? 

2. Are injections (spinal axial blocks, sacroiliac joint injections, facet joint injections) with or without steroids effective, safe and cost effective treatment options for adults with chronic non-malignant pain? 

3. Are lidocaine intravenous infusions effective, safe and cost effective for treating chronic non-malignant pain in adults? 

4. What are patient views and experiences of chronic pain treatment in specialist secondary care settings? 

Why is this important?

Chronic pain is a life-limiting condition associated with poor quality of life, significant comorbidities, decreased participation in society and premature mortality. It is a complex condition which is difficult to treat effectively. Globally, chronic low back pain is the leading cause of disability, with headache, neck pain and musculoskeletal disorders also included in the top ten causes. In the UK, the prevalence of chronic pain is estimated to be around 43.5% and this figure is expected to rise as the UK's population ages. Chronic pain is increasingly recognised as a significant public health issue and is one of the Scottish Government's clinical priorities.

Referred by

Scottish Pain Medics National Network