| Initial Assessment Methods(Adapted from AHCPR 1994)
 X-Rays Psychosocial Factors Risk factors for chronicity Management Information to Patients  | Management
   
                |     | Medical management can have a
      major impact on patients’ clinical progress and outcomes. |   
                |   | Initial
                  management should include: 
 
                    practical advice on: a thorough clinical history and brief physical
                      examination 
                     reassurance that there are no red flags of any serious
                      spinal pathology (Avoid ‘labelling’)  reassurance that there is no need for special
                      investigations in the absence of red flags  accurate information on the good prognosis for rapid
                      recovery  reassurance that light physical activity is not harmful 
                     
                   
                     maintaining daily activities  return to work.  
                     AHCPR 1994 
                   |   
 |