Herman PM, Szczurko O, Cooley K, Mills EJ
The purpose of this study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of naturopathic care (acupuncture, relaxation exercises, exercise and dietary advice, and a back care booklet) compared to standardized physiotherapy education and a back care booklet (control treatment) for low back pain. The results showed that naturopathic care significantly improved quality-adjusted life-years over the 6-month study period and also significantly reduced costs of adjunctive care per participant and reduced costs for the employer.
This economic evaluation alongside a pragmatic randomized control trial shows naturopathic care to be more cost-effective than a standardized physiotherapy education regimen in the treatment of chronic low back pain.
Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 2008, 14(2), 32-9