LEVEL OF EVIDENCE FOR INTERVENTION
What does evidence based practice (EBP) mean? The chart below outlines the different levels of evidence.
Level 1a, Systematic Reviews A systematic review is the strongest level of scientific evidence. Investigators thoroughly evaluate multiple studies on a specific topic assessing their quality, outcomes, and potential bias. Level 1b, Randomized Controlled Trials These are research studies designed usually with an experimental group and a control group with the intent to determine the effectiveness of an intervention while minimizing the risk of bias. Level 2, Cohort Studies Observational research of a group of people who share similar characteristics. Level 3, Case Control Studies A retrospective study comparing two groups of people, those with a certain condition and those without it, to learn more about the condition. Level 4, Case Report/ Case Series These are detailed accounts of a specific patient’s treatment and are usually written to share lessons learned.
Level 1a
Level 1b
Level 2
Level 3
Level 4
Level 5 , Expert Opinion/Animal and In Vitro Studies
Inside this Guide The highest levels of evidence are systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials. The evidence presented in this guide for Shockwave Therapy and HILT is focused on systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials.
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