Clinical Practice Guidelines

Acute Low Back Problems in Adults: Assessment and Treatment

Published by a non-Federal panel of experts sponsored by the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Public Health Service

Agency for Health Care Policy and Research

Contents

• Attention Clinicians
• Abstract
• Suggested Citation
• Purpose and Scope
• Initial Assessment
• Medical History
• Physical Examination
• Inconsistent Findings and Pain Behavior
• Algorithm 1. Initial Evaluation of Acute Low Back Problem
• Initial Care
• Physical Methods
• Algorithm 2. Treatment of Acute Low Back Problem on Initial and Followup Visits
• Special Studies and Diagnostic Considerations
• Algorithm 3. Evaluation of the Slow-to-Recover Patient
• Management Considerations after Special Studies
• Algorithm 4. Surgical Considerations for Patients with Persistent Sciatica
• Further Management Considerations
• Algorithm 5. Further Management of Acute Low Back Pain
• Summary of Guideline Recommendations

AHCPR Publication No. 95-0643
December 1994

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All contents copyright © 1992-1997 the Author(s) and the University of Iowa. All rights reserved.
Last Modified: January 02, 1997