Recent advances in the treatment of low back pain

There is at the present time an epidemic of low back pain in the industrialized countries. Although the exact origin of such pain is still unknown, there is increasing awareness that the outcome is usually favourable. Only some 10% of those suffering an acute episode of back pain are incapacitated for more than 6 weeks. The causes of long standing back pain are being identified in an increasing number of patients. They include anatomical and pathological disturbances in the motion segment as well as psychological, social and political causes. There are numerous factors which influence the pathophysiology of the motion segment. The degree of loading has been successfully measured and delineated for various postures and exercises, including those at work. The nutritional pathways to the disc have been established and the effect of various external factors measured. Movement is good for the disc and the importance of continuous passive motion for the healing of diseased or injured connective tissues is not established. Activation of large muscle groups increases the production of the body's pain reducing encephalins. Early diagnosis and early mobilisation of the patient should be of benefit, and long term bed rest and inactivity must be prevented. Fewer cases will need operation in the future. Improved imaging techniques and better methods of operation and fixation will help those few who have a definite pathological lesion amenable to surgery.