Aetiology, diagnosis and treatment of low back pain.

A total of 274 patients complaining of low back pain following injury was reviewed. Impact injuries were associated with soft-tissue strain, which was seen less often after twisting injuries. Twisting injuries were associated with disc prolapse more often than falls. Discogenic pain followed lifting injuries more often than jerking injuries. Slipping and jerking injuries were associated with poor outcomes, but the diagnosis was of no prognostic significance. The response to treatment was markedly influenced by the presence of a compensation claim. Only educational classes could be shown to have a significant effect on outcome.