First, first-order questions are addressed. This involves examining whether a treatment is effective by comparing different interventions in randomized studies. This research approach regularly shows that most meaningful MSK treatments achieve similar therapeutic effects on average.
Next, second-order questions are considered. The focus here is on how treatments work. This involves investigating both specific and common mechanisms of action that lead to clinical improvements.
Finally, third-order questions are explored. These deal with for whom a particular treatment is most effective. To this end, patient-related moderators are analyzed, contributing to precision medicine and more individualized treatment decisions.

Webinar Objectives

The webinar aims to achieve the following objectives:

1. To present the three most important study designs that investigate:

• what works,
• why it works, and
• who it helps.

2. To explain the current state of scientific literature in these areas.
3. To identify existing knowledge gaps and future research needs.

Target Audience

This webinar is aimed at clinicians, researchers, and trainees and students. It provides a clear and structured framework for evaluating osteopathic treatment approaches and offers the right perspective for interpreting scientific evidence, developing better studies, and making more individualized therapy decisions.