Low back pain in adults

Abstract

Low back pain (LBP) in the adult patient is a very common presentation in general practice. It can occasionally be a sign of serious underlying pathology. The non-specific nature of symptoms poses a diagnostic challenge for the clinician. LBP has a significant psychological and social impact on patients and is a strain on social and economic resources. Management in primary care can be a challenge for the clinician, as treatment is often non-curative and despite optimum management, LBP will often persist and recur. This article reviews the anatomy, causes and classification of LBP before considering the primary care assessment and latest management strategies for LBP in adults.