摘要
Low back pain (LBP) is primarily managed in general practice and commonly underestimated or misdiagnosed by physicians. This article presents comprehensive review for diagnosis and evaluation of LBP according to current clinical studies guidelines. Our objectives are to define LBP, to establish how to take a detailed history and how to physically examine it in order to enable physicians to make an appropriate differential diagnosis for LBP, and to identify relevant investigations and referrals of patients with LBP. The article first offers a quick description of inflammatory back pain then discusses the importance of screening red flag patients with LBP and the importance of its early detection. Finally, we summarize how to outline a primary plan for managing and treating LBP. The article is prepared in the format of question and answer to make it targeted and accessible.
Low back pain (LBP) is primarily managed in general practice and commonly underestimated or misdiagnosed by physicians. This article presents comprehensive review for diagnosis and evaluation of LBP according to current clinical studies guidelines. Our objectives are to define LBP, to establish how to take a detailed history and how to physically examine it in order to enable physicians to make an appropriate differential diagnosis for LBP, and to identify relevant investigations and referrals of patients with LBP. The article first offers a quick description of inflammatory back pain then discusses the importance of screening red flag patients with LBP and the importance of its early detection. Finally, we summarize how to outline a primary plan for managing and treating LBP. The article is prepared in the format of question and answer to make it targeted and accessible.