Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions

Low back pain is now the leading cause of disability worldwide, with over 540 million people affected each day. The Lancet recently released a series of papers designed to stimulate a new conversation around the evaluation and treatment of low back pain. They cite improved integrative care and updated clinical pathways as possible solutions to the burdensome pandemic of back pain.

The researchers found a substantial gap between the evidence-informed clinical guidelines and the practical application of care. They advocate for a collaborative model of care with an emphasis on nonpharmacological and conservative care options (such as chiropractic) for the treatment of individuals suffering from low back pain. The role of treatments, such as injections and surgery, were limited and recommended in only a few instances outside of emergency situations.