Low back pain – literature review

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is the third most common disorder presenting in the neurology outpatient clinic. It is usually defined as acute (less than 4 weeks), subacute (4–8 weeks) and chronic (more than 12 weeks). It is estimated that lifetime prevalence of up to 84 %. LBP is the most common cause of disability. LBP is divided into musculoskeletal and neurologic low back pain. In 90% of patients under the age of 65 the cause of pain is nerve root compression caused by disk herniation. Although serious spinal pathology is rare (less than 1%), the identification of red flags remains key in the evaluation of patients with LBP. A prior history of cancer, even in the absence of other red flags, has the highest predictive value for detection of malignancy. In conjunction with the history, a careful neurologic examination can help establish the presence and localize the lesion. According to guidelines imaging studies should not be obtained in patients with LBP of less than 6 weeks duration in the absence of red flags. Magnetic resonance imaging is the study of choice in patients with LBP. It allows for optimal visualization of the spinal cord, nerve roots and intervertebral discs. The results of MRI should be interpreted with caution because incidental degenerative spine changes unrelated to the pain are commonly seen in MRI. The main goals of treatment the patients presenting with acute LBP are reduction of pain and preservation of sensory and motor function. In the absence of red flags, for most cases conservative management will be appropriate. Prognosis are favorable, although recurrence rates range from 23% to 80%.