Research

New format for BMJ research articles in print

BMJ 2008; 337 doi: 10.1136/bmj.a2946 (Published 29 December 2008)
Cite this as: BMJ 2008;337:a2946

It’s nearly 10 years since we began abridging original research articles for readers of the print BMJ. Now we’re going a step further, using the advantages of both web and print. The full, open access version of this original article by Hollingshurst and colleagues is published online (doi:10.1136/bmj.a2656), along with our first ever BMJ research video and a podcast. Here are two abridged versions: a BMJ Pico—a new evidence abstract prepared by the authors—and a Short Cuts article written by the BMJ. Which version would you read and use? Which would you prefer if you were the author? Please tell us your views, as readers and researchers, by posting rapid responses to this article.

Pico model—Randomised controlled trial of Alexander technique lessons, exercise, and massage (ATEAM) for chronic and recurrent back pain: economic evaluation

Sandra Hollinghurst,1 Debbie Sharp,1 Kathleen Ballard,3 Jane Barnett,2 Angela Beattie,1 Maggie Evans,1 George Lewith,2 Karen Middleton,2 Frances Oxford,3 Fran Webley,2 Paul Little2

Study question What is the difference in cost effectiveness between long and short courses in the Alexander technique, massage, and a general practitioner’s prescription for exercise for patients with persistent back pain?

Answer An exercise prescription and six lessons in Alexander technique alone were each more than 85% likely to be cost effective at values above £20 000 per quality adjusted life year (QALY), but the Alexander …

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