Musculoskeletal back pain: diagnostic algorithm, approaches to therapy

Shavlovskaya O.A.

International Restorative Medicine University, Moscow, Russia

Low back pain is a musculoskeletal pain caused by damage to the elements of the musculoskeletal system – spinal joints (facet joints), skeletal muscles of the back, tendons, ligaments, intervertebral disc. The diagnosis of «musculoskeletal low back pain» is based on complaints, anamnesis data, somatic and brief neurological examination of the patient. First-line drugs in the treatment of low back pain include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. In the presence of muscle spasm with the formation of myofascial pain syndrome, it is advisable to prescribe central muscle relaxants, the action of which is aimed at eliminating painful muscle spasm. In order to correct sensory disturbances and prevent chronic pain, injections of B vitamins are additionally prescribed. Chondroitin sulfate injections are also prescribed as part of the complex therapy of low back pain.

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About the Authors

Olga A. Shavlovskaya, Dr. Sci. (Med.), Professor, Department of Restorative Medicine and Medical Rehabilitation, International Restorative Medicine University, Moscow, Russia; shavlovskaya@1msmu.ru, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3726-0730

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