STANDARDIZED PHYSICAL-EXAMINATION PROTOCOL FOR LOW-BACK DISORDERS - FEASIBILITY OF USE AND VALIDITY OF SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS

A standardized examination protocol was developed fcr the assessment o f low back disorders in primary care. The protocol was found feasible in the occupational health service setting. The interexaminer repeatab ility between an occupational physician and an occupational physiother apist was good for most items. The predictive validity of different sy mptoms and signs was investigated with regard to future sick leaves du e to low back disorders. Relief of pain when lying, severe trouble at work caused by pain, continuous pain, and pain in the leg or numbness or diminished sensitivity in the foot predicted sick leaves. Of physic al signs, pain in the low back or buttock during lateral flexion and a side difference greater than or equal to 20 degrees in the straight-l eg-raising angle were predictors for sick leaves. The predictive valid ity of the protocol items should be tested in another patient populati on before conclusions can be drawn concerning the external validity of our results. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Inc.