Question: Which are the most effective treatments for acute and chronic low back pain?
Methods: Systematic reviews were conducted including identification and selection of relevant trials, assessment of the methodological quality, data extraction (study populations, interventions, and outcomes), and data analysis.
Results: acute low back pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants relieve pain more than placebo; advice to stay active speeds up recovery and reduces chronic disability; bed rest and specific back exercises are not effective.
Results: chronic low back pain. Exercise therapy, back schools, behavioral therapy, and multidisciplinary programs are effective.
Conclusions: Scientific evidence shows that an active approach to low back pain patients is effective.