Highlights & Basics
- Diagnosis of musculoskeletal lower back pain is made by eliminating specific lower back pain causes of neurologic compromise, neoplasia, inflammatory arthritis, fracture, or referred pain from other locations or organ systems.
- Pain, stiffness, and/or soreness of the lumbosacral region are the symptoms. May be acute (lasting <4 weeks), subacute (4 to 12 weeks), or chronic (>12 weeks).
- Patient education, return to normal activity, and self-care temperature treatments (ice, heat) are the first steps in therapy.
- Nonpharmacologic approaches to control pain are preferred. When these are ineffective, first-line pharmacotherapy is oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Acetaminophen, muscle relaxants, opioids, and duloxetine may be used as adjuncts.
Quick Reference
History & Exam
Key Factors
Other Factors
Diagnostics Tests
Treatment Options
Definition
Epidemiology
Etiology
Pathophysiology
Citations
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