WHO Introduces First-Ever Guidelines for Managing Chronic Low Back Pain
8 Dec 2023 • Cases of LBP are expected to rise to an estimated 843 million by 2050. Chronic primary LBP referring to pain that lasts for more than 3 months that is not due to an underlying disease or other condition – accounts for the vast majority of chronic LBP presentation.
WHO recommends non-surgical interventions to help people experiencing chronic primary LBP. These interventions include:
- education programs that support knowledge and self-care strategies;
- exercise programs;
- some physical therapies, such as spinal manipulative therapy and massage;
- psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy; and
- medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.
WHO advises against interventions such as:
- lumbar braces, belts and/or supports;
- some physical therapies, such as traction (i.e. pulling on part of the body);
- and some medicines, such as opioid pain killers, which can be associated with overdose and dependence.
Source: WHO | Read full story