Epidemiology

Low back pain (LBP) is a common clinical problem with major socioeconomic importance. Approximately 70% to 85% of adults are affected by LBP at some point during their lifetime.[4][5] Each year, LBP affects approximately one-third of the adult UK population; however, only approximately 20% of people with LBP will consult their doctor about it.[6][7]

Although a number of different spinal anatomical structures (facet joints, intervertebral discs, vertebral bodies, ligaments, and muscles), as well as other intra-abdominal or lower thoracic pathological causes, have been identified as possible sources of LBP, the most common cause seems to be a degenerate lumbar intervertebral disc.[8][9][10][11][12]

Radiographic evidence of disc degeneration commences as early as the third decade of life. The changes increase in prevalence and severity with the passage of time by 3% to 4% per annum.[13][14] However, there is no clear correlation between symptoms and radiological findings.

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