A Simple Approach of Low Back Pain

Hani Almoallim^1,2,3*, Samar Alwafi^1,2, Khaled Albazli^1,2, Manal Alotaibi^1,2, Tuqa Bazuhair^1,2

¹Department of Medicine, Medical College, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, KSA.
²Alzaidi Chair of Research in Rheumatic Diseases, Medical College, Umm Alqura University, Makkah, KSA.
³Department of Medicine, Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital, Jeddah, KSA.

DOI: 10.4236/ijcm.2014.517139                

Abstract

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.

Keywords

Low Back Pain, Rheumatology, History, Examination, Management, Inflammatory Back Pain

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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