In a review published in JAMA Internal Medicine, Mr. Maher and colleagues analyzed data from more than 20 studies with about 30,000 participants from around the world with a history of back pain. Researchers then looked at the best approach to prevent back pain, including education combined with exercise, exercise alone and the use of orthotics or back braces.
Here are four notes:
1. Researchers found the only preventive measure supported evidence was exercise programs.
2. The review also found that orthotics in shoes, back braces and redesigned workplaces weren’t shown effective in relieving back pain.
3. Mr. Maher and his colleagues noticed recurrences of pain after 12 months if participants stopped exercising.
4. A commentary attached to the JAMA report said there is concrete evidence on the value of exercise to prevent lower back pain, but formal exercise instruction after an episode of LBP is uncommonly prescribed by physicians.
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