The Management of Acute Industrial Low Back Pain

Abstract

The high incidence of back pain is a growing concern that suggests its management has so far been ineffective. This paper sets out to review recent literature on the management of back pain and its effect on industry. Particular emphasis is given to secondary prevention of recurrence and chronic disability as opposed to primary prevention of back pain. By collating the information gained, certain relevant and useful elements were used to form the basis of guidelines for an effective programme. Management is best implemented within the industrial and community setting, involving both manager and employee. An appropriate treatment strategy should be directed at self-management, encouraging early and continued activity and avoiding unnecessary sickness absence. In these ways psychological distress and illness behavour can be minimised. Placing these areas that have been previously neglected at the forefront of management programmes could reduce the occurrence of chronic low back disability and overcome a society structure that is currently sustaining the problem. The high incidence of back pain is a growing concern that suggests its management has so far been ineffective. This paper sets out to review recent literature on the management of back pain and its effect on industry. Particular emphasis is given to secondary prevention of recurrence and chronic disability as opposed to primary prevention of back pain. By collating the information gained, certain relevant and useful elements were used to form the basis of guidelines for an effective programme. Management is best implemented within the industrial and community setting, involving both manager and employee. An appropriate treatment strategy should be directed at self-management, encouraging early and continued activity and avoiding unnecessary sickness absence. In these ways psychological distress and illness behavour can be minimised. Placing these areas that have been previously neglected at the forefront of management programmes could reduce the occurrence of chronic low back disability and overcome a society structure that is currently sustaining the problem.