Week 3 - Mechanical Back Pain

Question 1

is mechanical back pain constant?

Answer 1

no

relapsing and remitting with no neurological symptoms

Question 2

describe the presentation of mechanical back pain

Answer 2

pain is worse with movement

relieved by rest

Question 3

what is the average age of people affected by mechanical back pain?

Answer 3

20-60

Question 4

name 8 common causes for mechanical back pain?

Answer 4

obesity
poor posture
poor lifting technique
lack of physical activity
depression
degenerative disc prolapse
facet joint OA
spondylosis

Question 5

what is spondylosis?

Answer 5

where the IV discs lose water content with age resulting in less cushioning and increased pressure on the facet joints, leading to secondary OA

Question 6

what are the main components of treatment for mechanical back pain?

Answer 6

analgesia and physiotherapy

- reassure patient and encourage activity and discourage bed rest

Question 7

name 3 situations where spinal stabilization surgery might be an option for mechanical back pain?

Answer 7

• if a single level (e.g L2/L3) is affected by OA or instability
• if the patient has not improved despite physio and conservative management
• if there are no adverse secondary gain or behavioural issues which could affect surgery outcome

Question 8

do most people with mechanical back pain get surgery?

Answer 8

no, as most have multi-level disease of the spine

and long term results recurrence after 5 years