The Science-Based Benefits of Supported Self-Management in Chiropractic Care for Chronic Back-Related Leg Pain

As a chiropractor in Adelaide, it is critical to consider the holistic management of conditions such as chronic back-related leg pain (BRLP), which impacts a significant portion of individuals with low back pain (LBP).

Recent research underscores the importance of integrating a whole-person approach in treatment, particularly through supported self-management.

Let’s take a look below!

Understanding Supported Self-Management

Supported self-management is a patient-centred care model that encourages patients to actively engage in managing their condition. Studies have shown that interventions encompassing biopsychosocial elements can significantly improve outcomes for chronic pain sufferers.

This approach focuses not only on physical symptoms but also on psychological and social factors contributing to pain.

A notable study by Leininger et al. (2025) examined the feasibility of a supported self-management intervention for chronic BRLP, contrasting it with conventional medical care. The intervention included physical therapies and psychosocial strategies such as relaxed breathing and progressive muscle relaxation.

The holistic approach aimed to enhance patients' capabilities, opportunities, and motivations to engage in effective self-management.

Key Findings

The study demonstrated that supported self-management is feasible and effective for chronic BRLP patients.

Critical outcomes indicate:

● High Engagement: Nearly all participants in the self-management group (95%) engaged in the self-management practices taught.

● Satisfaction: 85% of participants reported being satisfied with the self-management program.

● Continued Self-Management: The majority of participants continued using the learned strategies beyond the study period.

These findings reflect the significant potential of supported self-management interventions in improving patient outcomes and satisfaction.

The Role of Chiropractors

Chiropractors are well-placed to implement supported self-management interventions. Incorporating this approach requires shifting from solely biophysical treatments to a more comprehensive care model.

El-Tallawy et al. (2021) emphasise the importance of considering the biopsychosocial model for musculoskeletal pain management, encouraging more comprehensive treatment strategies.

Chiropractic care involving supported self-management may include:

● Patient Education: Providing insights about the condition and self-management techniques.

● Psychosocial Strategies: Integrating methods such as relaxed breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery.

● Physical Modalities: Utilizing exercise programs and spinal manipulation therapies tailored to individual patient needs.

● Behavioural Support: Employing behaviour change techniques to help patients maintain consistent self-care practices, thus enhancing long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

The integration of supported self-management in chiropractic care offers a promising pathway for enhancing the management of chronic BRLP.

By adopting a whole-person perspective that addresses physical, psychological, and social aspects of health, chiropractors can foster better patient engagement, satisfaction, and long-term outcomes.

References

1. Leininger, B., Evans, R., Greco, C. M., Hanson, L., Schulz, C., Schneider, M., Connett, J., Keefe, F., Glick, R. M., & Bronfort, G. (2025). Supported biopsychosocial self-management for back-related leg pain: a randomized feasibility study integrating a whole person perspective. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 33(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-025-00570-7