Treatment of low back pain: myths and facts.
OBJECTIVE
Which are the most effective treatments for acute and chronic low back pain?


METHODS
Systematic reviews were conducted including identification and selection of relevant trials, assessment of the methodological quality, data extraction (study populations, interventions, and outcomes), and data analysis.


RESULTS
acute low back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants relieve pain more than placebo; advice to stay active speeds up recovery and reduces chronic disability; bed rest and specific back exercises are not effective.


RESULTS
chronic low back pain. Exercise therapy, back schools, behavioral therapy, and multidisciplinary programs are effective.


CONCLUSIONS
Scientific evidence shows that an active approach to low back pain patients is effective.
van Tulder
M W
MW
Institute for Research in Extramural Medicine & Department of Clinical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Vrije University Medical Centre, Amsterdam. mw.van_tulder.emgo@med.vu.nl
D000208:Acute Disease; D002908:Chronic Disease; D006801:Humans; D017116:Low Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care; D015203:Reproducibility of Results