The power of integrating data: advancing pain research using meta-analysis

Abstract

Publications related to pain research have increased significantly in recent years. The abundance of new evidence creates challenges staying up to date with the latest information. A comprehensive understanding of the literature is important for both clinicians and investigators involved in pain research. One commonly used method to combine and analyse data in health care research is meta-analysis. The primary aim of a meta-analysis is to quantitatively synthesise the results of multiple studies focused on the same research question. Meta-analysis is a powerful tool that can be used to advance pain research. However, there are inherent challenges when combining data from multiple sources. There are also numerous models and statistical considerations when undertaking a meta-analysis. This review aims to discuss the planning and preparation for completing a meta-analysis, review commonly used meta-analysis models, and evaluate the clinical implications of meta-analysis in pain research.

Effectiveness of neural mobilisation for the treatment of nerve-related cervicobrachial pain: a systematic review with subgroup meta-analysis

“…When the available number of studies for a comparison was low (eg, two), we used the fixed-effects method for meta-analysis because a small number of studies can overinflate the effect size estimation if using a random-effects method. 27 Where different outcome measures were combined in the same meta-analysis (eg, Neck Disability Index and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaires), the summary standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated and interpreted as small (0.2-0.5), moderate (0.5-0.8), or large (>0.8). 15 The prediction interval (PI) was also calculated for each comparison and subgroup (if more than one study was available).…”

Introduction to a special issue on big data and pain

“…As it has already been pointed out, small sample sizes and heterogeneity in the pathogenesis of chronic pain call for methodological approaches that can increase power by integrating data. Fundaun et al 6 present a guide, accompanied by examples, for the design, planning, and conducting of meta-analysis. They present and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the most commonly used meta-analysis models and evaluate the clinical implications of meta-analysis in pain research.…”