Back school for low back pain

A back school is an educational program that teaches you practical information about back care, posture, body mechanics, back exercises, and how to prevent long-term back problems. Going to a back school gives you the tools for self-care, which may improve how well you manage low back pain.

Back school is only as effective as you make it by applying your back-care knowledge on a regular basis. Back school research has produced mixed results.

• Some studies have shown that back school can improve acute low back pain and speed recovery. Other studies have shown no benefit or mixed results.¹ For chronic pain, back school is likely to help reduce pain and increase your ability to be active.²
• One study suggests that back school is as effective as manual treatments for relieving some low back pain.³

Ask your health insurance provider or doctor for the name of a local back school. You may find a back school program in your nearest rehabilitation hospital or outpatient program. Or you may find a back school that is an independent clinic.

Citations

1. McIntosh G, Hall H (2008). Low back pain (acute), search date May 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
2. McIntosh G, Hall H (2008). Low back pain (chronic), search date May 2007. Online version of BMJ Clinical Evidence: http://www.clinicalevidence.com.
3. Hseih C, et al. (2002). Effectiveness of four conservative treatments for subacute low back pain. Spine, 27(11): 1142–1148.