Chronic low back pain: new perspectives and treatment guidelines for primary care: Part I.

Low back pain is a leading cause of work-related disability and has important socioeconomic consequences. Although there is little evidence to determine the optimal treatment of chronic low back pain, treatment goals can be established. Primary care providers should focus on pain management, improvement of activity and functional level, and fostering a greater understanding of chronic low back pain. This two-part article summarizes consensus guidelines developed by practitioners with expertise in pain management, family medicine, internal medicine, physical therapy, rheumatology, and managed care, and provides direction for primary care providers on a multidisciplinary approach to the patient with chronic low back pain.