Self-care guidelines for the management of nonspecific low back pain

Low back pain is a very common disorder among adults. However, most low back pain is nonspecific; it has no known cause and cannot be given a precise pathoanatomical diagnosis. Nonspecific low back pain can be very painful, but it is not serious; it is basically an age-related disorder that is affected by differences in occupation, genetics, and personal behavior. There are many different treatments for nonspecific low back pain, but most of them are ineffective. Most patients improve considerably during the first 4 weeks-with or without medical treatment. There is increasing support in the medical literature for patients to assume more responsibility for self-care, and less dependence upon the health care provider. Evidence-based self-care guidelines are presented for use by both the health care provider and the patient. The guidelines offer advice regarding medication, exercise, physical activity, coping skills, and prevention of the next episode.