Best management for lower back pain?

Clinical care standards for lower back pain are guidelines and recommendations developed by healthcare organizations and professional societies to guide healthcare providers in the diagnosis, treatment, and management of lower back pain. These standards are based on the best available evidence and aim to improve patient outcomes, reduce unnecessary interventions, and promote cost-effective care. When you come to see an Osteopath for lower back pain, this is the common clinical care standard that you may expect as part of your management.

1. Assessment and Diagnosis:

   • Thorougher evaluation of the patient's medical history, including pain characteristics, duration, and any red flags for serious underlying conditions.

   • Physical examination to assess the patient's range of motion, strength, and neurological function.

   • Initial imaging only if there are signs of serious pathology or if conservative treatment has failed

2. Education and Self-Management:

   • Education on the nature of lower back pain, its expected course, and self-management strategies.

   • Encouragement to remain active and continue with normal activities as much as possible.

   • Use of strategies such as heat or cold therapy, exercise, and over-the-counter pain medications for pain relief.

3. Non-Invasive Treatments:

   • Non-pharmacological therapies as first-line treatment, such as physical therapy, exercise programs, spinal manipulation, and dry needling

4. Pharmacological Interventions:

   • Referral onwards to the GP or Pharmacist for pain management.

   • Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen for pain relief when necessary ( as directed by a health professional)

   • It is recommended to limit the use of opioids for acute lower back pain to situations where non-opioid treatments have been ineffective, and carefully monitor their use.

5. Referral and Specialist Care:

   • Referral to a specialist or multidisciplinary team for patients who have severe, persistent, or complex lower back pain.

   • Collaboration with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists or pain management specialists, to optimize care.

6. Follow-Up and Monitoring:

   • Follow-up appointments to assess progress, provide support, and adjust treatment as needed.

   • Encouragement of ongoing self-management strategies and provide resources for patients to manage their symptoms effectively.

It's important to note that these are general clinical care standards, and individual patient circumstances may require tailored approaches. Healthcare providers should always consider the specific needs and preferences of each patient when making treatment decisions.

Your Osteopath at Varsity Osteo will take a detailed clinical history, assess your symptoms and determine the best management plan specific to you. This may mean that treatment involves any of the above steps to ensure best clinical outcomes.

Clinical Standard Guide Can be found at:  https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-08/low_back_pain_clinical_care_standard.pdf