Clinical principles for the diagnosis and treatment of musculoskeletal (non-specific) lower back pain

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) is one of the most common reasons for a neurologist visit. In 90–95% of cases, LBP is nonspecific (musculoskeletal). The diagnosis of nonspecific LBP based on symptoms, somatic and neurological examination data, the absence of «red flags» (symptoms and signs characteristic of specific causes of back pain, discogenic radiculopathy, or lumbar stenosis). We review the modern principles of acute, subacute, and chronic nonspecific LBP treatment. We also discuss interventional and non-interventional treatment approaches, emphasizing the importance of combination therapy and an interdisciplinary approach.