Preventive methods of low back pain

Low back pain is very common, affecting most adults at some points in their lives. The purpose of this review was to search and evaluate the methods of prevention of low back pain. Four methods of prevention were found: education and back school, exercises, lumbar support/back belts, and ergonomics. The MEDLINE, ProQuest and Google Scholar database was searched for all relevant articles published in English from 1989 to 2006. A total 35 articles were identified and only 11 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that contained original data about preventing low back pain were selected and reviewed. There is consistent evidence from RCTs and other relevant reviews that exercise is an effective method in preventing low back pain and can decrease the incidence and duration of low back pain episodes. The types of exercise include strengthening the back or trunk and cardiovascular fitness. There is insufficient evidence to support ergonomics approach while the implementation of education and lumbar supports/back belt did not produce any significant effect. Only exercise provided sufficient evidence to conclude that it is an effective preventive intervention.