Abstract
Back pain is common in children and adolescents. Most cases of back pain are non-specific and self-limiting. In children and adolescents, pain is usually related to the posterior elements of the spine and disc-related problems are rare. Serious pathology, including malignancy and infection needs to be excluded. Evaluation and management is challenging and requires a thorough history and physical exam, and understanding of the immature skeleton. Diagnostic imaging is useful in the evaluation of a child or adolescent with low back pain and can help guide management. This article will review common causes of back pain in the pediatric population.
Highlights
Back pain is common in young people with one year prevalence rates varying from 7% to 58% [1]
Greater relative backpack weight is associated with upper- and mid-back pain but not Low back pain (LBP)
Immature children and adolescents with bilateral spondylolysis or spondylolisthesis require standing lateral radiographs to assess for slip progression every 6 to 12 months until skeletal maturity is reached
Summary
Back pain is common in young people with one year prevalence rates varying from 7% to 58% [1]. Clinical history Children and adolescents frequently present with diffuse, poorly localized lumbar pain in the absence of associated neurologic symptoms. 2. Range of motion Active movements of the thoracolumbar spine are tested in standing position with the pelvis/iliac crest stabilized. Extension - patient bends as far backward as possible with knees straight and lumbar spine supported by examiner.
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