Is strapping a person on a backboard for the sole purpose of immobilizing the spine considered an evidence-based practice?

The focus of this question is on the practice of strapping a person to a backboard solely for the purpose of spinal immobilization. Current evidence-based practices indicate that excessive or unnecessary immobilization can lead to negative outcomes, including discomfort and potential complications like pressure sores. The latest guidelines emphasize that spinal immobilization should be done with careful consideration of the situation, rather than as a routine procedure for all individuals.

In circumstances where there is a high suspicion of a spinal injury, spinal stabilization techniques might be employed, but this is done more in the context of the overall management of the patient rather than merely placing them on a backboard. The shift towards more individualized assessments means that blanket practices without clear medical justification are often deemed unnecessary. Therefore, strapping an individual to a backboard solely for immobilization, without substantiated risk factors, is not considered evidence-based practice.