Implementation of the Better Outcomes for Older People with Spinal Trouble (BOOST) Programme into NHS Practice
BOOST Implementation Study
We have developed a physiotherapy programme called BOOST (Better Outcomes for Older People with Spinal Trouble) for older individuals experiencing back and leg pain due to spinal stenosis, a common condition that affects mobility. Our research proved that BOOST helps people walk better, reduces the risk of falls, and improves physical capacity. It's also cost-effective for the NHS.
Now, our goal is to make BOOST available in the NHS for those seeking care. We're working with patients and physiotherapists to refine the programme, focusing on pain management and long-term exercise adherence. In the first stage, we'll make these improvements and evaluate them with the help of physiotherapists. In the second stage, we'll develop an online course to train physiotherapists to deliver BOOST and assess their learning outcomes.
Our aim is to provide a freely accessible training course, making BOOST more widely available and improving the lives of older individuals dealing with spinal stenosis-related pain.
Project lead / contact: Esther Williamson — Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences (ox.ac.uk)
Website: BOOST online course available at https://learn.exeter.ac.uk/
ARC theme: Community Health and Social Care Improvement
Who we're working with
- University of Exeter, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences