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WHO guidelines on chronic low back pain

Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma

January 9, 2024 at 1:30:00 PM

Chronic low back pain, Primary care, Global disability

Content Editor: Dr. Rashmi Verma

  • The World Health Organization has released guidelines for managing chronic low back pain (LBP) in primary care listing interventions for health workers.

  • Low back pain is the leading cause of global disability.

  • A 60% increase from 1990 to 2020 is projected to reach 843 million cases by 2050, with significant growth anticipated in Africa and Asia.

  • WHO guidelines recommend non-surgical interventions to help people experiencing chronic primary LBP such as:

  1. Education programs that support knowledge and self-care strategies.

  2. Exercise programs.

  3. Some physical therapies (spinal manipulative therapy and massage).

  4. Psychological therapies (cognitive behavioural therapy).

  5. Medicines (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines).

  • The guidelines emphasize holistic, person-centred, and equitable care for chronic primary low back pain due to potential harms outweighing benefits.

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