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Treatment of low back pain: myths and facts
1Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine & Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Vrije University Medical Centre, Amsterdam. mw.van_tulder.emgo@med.vu.nl
Question:
Which are the most effective treatments for acute and chronic low back pain?
Methods:
Systematic reviews were conducted including identification and selection of relevant trials, assessment of the methodological quality, data extraction (study populations, interventions, and outcomes), and data analysis.
Results:
acute low back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants relieve pain more than placebo; advice to stay active speeds up recovery and reduces chronic disability; bed rest and specific back exercises are not effective.
Results:
chronic low back pain. Exercise therapy, back schools, behavioral therapy, and multidisciplinary programs are effective.
Conclusions:
Scientific evidence shows that an active approach to low back pain patients is effective.