Low back pain

Clinician resources

This model of care aims to support people with acute low back pain to:

  • self-manage their condition
  • reduce the risk of spiralling into a chronic pain state
  • maintain their participation in work, family and social life to the full.

The model highlights three important areas for improvement:

  • more appropriate clinical examination and use of radiological imaging only as necessary
  • better use of appropriate analgesia
  • enhanced patient education.

Model of care

Published: May 2016.

A primary-care based model to support people with acute low back pain.

Download the model of care (PDF 4.4 MB)

Summary model of care

Published: February 2024. Next review: 2029.

This summary model provides guidance for primary care practitioners caring for people with low back pain. It outlines the different care pathways for people with low back pain based on a triage approach.

This resource was developed and updated in partnership with the State Insurance Regulation Authority (SIRA).

Download summary (PDF 576.7 KB)

Evaluation

Use of this model in the emergency department was evaluated in a stepped-wedge, cluster-randomised trial.


Consumer information

Best practice care for people with acute low back pain

Published: August 2019.

Understanding what the model of care aims to address and why.

Printing available from Finsbury Green. Product: 2HACI09

Download the best practice guide (PDF 5.4 MB)

Research

We support research into low back pain and provide evidence to support clinical practice.


Related resources

Emergency department clinical tools: Acute low back pain for the assessment and management of people with acute low back pain presenting to the emergency department.

Consumer information on chronic pain is available on the Chronic pain website.

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