Knowledge and Awareness of Radiographic Guidelines for Spinal Pain: a Cross-sectional Study Among Malaysian Chiropractors and Chiropractic Interns

Abstract

Background Although spinal radiographs are highly beneficial to identify causes for spinal pain, the inappropriate use of radiograph services among chiropractors have recently been debated. It has been proposed that lack of awareness of current guidelines and knowledge of guidelines application among chiropractors could possibly explain recent debate. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the level of knowledge and awareness to radiographic guidelines of spinal pain among chiropractors and chiropractic interns in Malaysia. Methods An online survey consisting of questions on their level of awareness on various radiographic guidelines and statements on agreements of radiography referrals was emailed to both chiropractors and chiropractic interns in Malaysia. Descriptive and Inferential statistics were used to describe the awareness level and compare the differences between the chiropractors and chiropractic interns. Results Of the 111 participants (75 chiropractors and 36 chiropractic interns), 71% of chiropractors and 29% of chiropractic interns were aware of the current radiographic guidelines. When compared on the statements of radiography referrals, significant differences were found between chiropractors and chiropractic interns on some of the statements of agreement for radiographic referrals. Conclusion The awareness level of radiography guidelines for spinal pain among chiropractors in Malaysia was higher as compared to other published studies. Some of the agreements on the radiography referrals for spinal pain was significantly difference between chiropractors and chiropractic interns. Future studies should also evaluate on the adherence level and factors associated with the awareness of radiographic guidelines