Female-specific factors in chronic neck and back pain: a scoping review of clinical practice guidelines and clinical guidance documents

Introduction Females are disproportionally affected by chronic neck and back pain, but whether Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) and Clinical Guidance Documents (CGDs) consider female-specific factors is unknown. This study aimed to identify the CPGs and CGDs that address female-specific factors in chronic neck and back pain, pinpointing any gaps that need addressing to optimise female-specific healthcare. Methods A scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework and PRISMA diagram, searching three electronic databases and five grey literature registries. Content, documentary and thematic analyses were performed. Results None of the nine included records mentioned ‘female’ or ‘sex,’ four mentioned ‘woman’/‘women,’ and one mentioned ‘gender.’ Three themes emerged: use of sex-related epidemiological context in guideline framing; patient-centred but not sex-considered approaches to healthcare; women’s health and reproductive health considerations. Discussion While patient-centred approaches to pain management are encouraged, sex-specific factors remain overlooked when managing general health conditions, risking suboptimal care and outcomes.