Journal of chiropractic humanities
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This article discusses the need for theoretical foundations in epidemiological research of musculoskeletal conditions and suggests the use of biopsychosocial theory when designing epidemiological studies. The association between smoking and back pain is used as an example. ⋯ Biopsychosocial theory is well suited for public health and epidemiological studies on musculoskeletal conditions, such as the relation between back pain and smoking, and may be useful to address the multivariable inputs for this association. Although it is not a perfect model, it provides theoretical guidance to inform the research question, an element of research design that is lacking in modern-day epidemiologic reports.