title: Obesity and low back pain: relationships and treatment.
abstract: SUMMARY Low back pain (LBP) and obesity (defined as BMI ≥30 kg/m(2)) are common problems in the general population. The treatment of LBP is not clearly defined and has variable success in different populations and time-frames. When a person presents with LBP who also meets the criteria for obesity, many questions are raised as to the value of weight-loss treatments and the success and/or safety of usual treatments of LBP, especially exercise. Based on the current medical literature for the treatment of LBP in patients who are obese: there should be attempts at weight loss (nonsurgical or surgical), especially if the person is in the morbidly obese (BMI >40 kg/m(2)) range; all usual forms of exercise and physical therapy treatments are possible and can be beneficial without increased concerns for injury; and, if necessary, invasive treatments such as spinal injections or surgery are potentially beneficial and have similar complication rates to the nonobese population. These options should be offered when medically necessary and appropriate.
authors.affiliation: Department of Orthopedics & Rehabilitation, Interdisciplinary Center for Musculoskeletal Training & Research, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32611, USA.
authors.forename: James W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Atchison
authors.forename: Heather K
authors.initials: HK
authors.lastname: Vincent