Back Pain which is not Better at 6 Weeks course for GPs

This session discusses the management of back pain lasting longer than 6 weeks. It examines factors which may lead to chronic back pain and the differences between mechanical pain and pain due to nerve root compression.

This session was reviewed by Khyati Bakhai and last updated in February 2020.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session you will be able to:

• Complete a holistic assessment of the impact of back pain on the individual
• Explain the significant impact of chronic back pain to society
• Design an individualised, evidence based management plan for the treatment of chronic back pain, including an awareness of when to refer to secondary care and allied health professionals
• Clarify the risk factors (yellow flags) that may lead to chronic back pain
• Have an awareness of the use of imaging in chronic back pain and possible pitfalls of investigating too much

Back pain is very common in the primary care population. The lifetime prevalence of low back pain is reported as over 70% in industrialised countries. Almost everyone will have low back pain at some point in their lives.