Management of degenerative disk disease and chronic low back pain

Orthop Clin North Am. 2011 Oct;42(4):513-28, viii. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2011.07.009.

Abstract

Degenerative disk disease is a strong etiologic risk factor of chronic low back pain (LBP). A multidisciplinary approach to treatment is often warranted. Patient education, medication, and cognitive behavioral therapies are essential in the treatment of chronic LBP sufferers. Surgical intervention with a rehabilitation regime is sometimes advocated. Prognostic factors related to the outcome of different treatments include maladaptive pain coping and genetics. The identification of pain genes may assist in determining individuals susceptible to pain and in patient selection for appropriate therapy. Biologic therapies show promise, but clinical trials are needed before advocating their use in humans.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acupuncture Therapy / methods
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Analgesics / therapeutic use
  • Chronic Disease
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Disease Management*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / diagnosis
  • Intervertebral Disc Degeneration / therapy*
  • Low Back Pain / diagnosis
  • Low Back Pain / therapy*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Orthopedic Procedures / methods
  • Pain Measurement
  • Physical Therapy Modalities
  • Prognosis
  • Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
  • Risk Assessment
  • Severity of Illness Index
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Analgesics