[Clinical management of low back pain in primary health care]

Diagnostic differentiation seems crucial in the treatment of patients with low back pain. We must try to distinguish between pain originating from the moving segments or the soft tissue in the columna, and differentiate between radicular pain and referred pain to the leg. Principles of treatment for the acute and recurrent low back pain attacks are dealt with, as well as the treatment of patients with acute chronic sciatica and spinal stenosis. The special problems concerning treatment of degenerative disc disease and patients with back pain caused by psychosocial problems are further discussed.