The role of history taking in assessing the nature of low back pain and its individual and related clinical problems:A prospective study’

Abstract

Despite the high prevalence of low back pain(LBP)globally and the large range of health professionals engaged in its management,its sussessful clinical approach still remains elusive(Frymoyer et al., 1983). Rationale,aims,objective:The aim of the study was to highlight the role of history taking in assessing the nature of low back pain and its individual and related clinical issues (Billis et al.2007).This prospective study was based on a longitude survey in an attempt at excluding clinical items(signs,symptoms,aggravating and relieving factors)that seem to correlate with the syndrome of low back pain(Billis et al.2009;Bilis et al.2012).Study design:A survey form called ‘Archimedes ΙΙΙ’ was utilized for the role of history taking in assessing the nature of low back pain and its individual and related clinical issues. This prospective study was based on a longitude survey(Billis et al. 2009;Bilis et al.2012),which proved a reliable and valid tool while the Department of Physiotherapy Technological and Educational Institute of Western Greece took the initiative to perform the project.Methods:The survey form included a history(clinical questions),self-reported questionnaires and clinical tests.Τhe Greek translation of these questionnaires provided reliable and valid instruments for the evaluation of Greek speaking patients with Low Back Pain(Zigmont et al 1983;Boscainos et al.2003). The patient interview begins with a series of questions to determine the specific syndrome. A subsequent physical examination supports or refutes the findings in histor.Τhe study took place in Athens by a licenced physical therapist. Results:The findings revealed that there was a strong positive correlation between age and HAD scale ,p=0.001.In addition,there was a strong negative correlation between age and SF-12 quality of life(QoL)(physical and mental)p=0.020,p=0.017.Finally,a strong positive relation between age and ROM lumbar-flexion p=0.00(Ware J.,1995)Conclusions: Combining information from the history with the findings of the physical examination, the clinician has the ability to rule out a number of potentially grim diagnoses.A clinical perspective capable of recognizing a defined syndrome at first contact will lead to a better outcome.Most patients with low back pain can be treated successfully with simple, pattern-specific, noninvasive primary management.Patients without a pattern and those who do not respond as anticipated require further investigation and specialized care (Powell et al.,2007)