Recent highlights in low back pain research, Part II: Prevention and management

Area of Science:

• Evidence-based practice in musculoskeletal health.
• Clinical research synthesis and review methodologies.
• Public health and preventative medicine strategies.

Background:

• Non-specific low back pain (LBP) remains a significant global health concern.
• Research on LBP prevention and management is rapidly evolving.
• This review focuses on literature published from 2020 to 2025.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize current evidence on the prevention and management of non-specific low back pain (LBP).
• To identify effective strategies and highlight areas for improvement in LBP care.
• To inform clinical practice and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive literature search was conducted across major databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane).
• Relevant studies were systematically categorized by topic.
• High-quality, clinically significant studies were selected for narrative synthesis.

Main Results:

• Exercise and education programs are effective for LBP prevention and recurrence.
• Active approaches like exercise and psychological interventions yield the most benefit for LBP management.
• Pharmacological and invasive treatments offer minimal benefits and carry significant risks.
• Special populations are underrepresented in trials, necessitating equitable, tailored care.

Conclusions:

• Active, person-centered care is the most effective approach for low back pain.
• Prioritize education, exercise, and psychologically informed strategies over medications and surgery.
• Address health inequities by tailoring LBP care to diverse populations.