Ambulance service use by patients with lower back pain: an observational study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Lower back pain (LBP) is the leading cause of disability globally and can be distressing for patients. It is commonly reported that serious pathologies underlying LBP are rare and most patients would be more appropriately managed in primary care. However, recent literature suggests patients accessing emergency care may differ from those accessing primary care. Currently, little is known about the use of ambulance services by people with LBP. The aim of this study was to investigate the extent and nature of ambulance services utilisation by patients presenting with LBP.

Methods

This observational study is a retrospective analysis of ambulance service calls in the North East of England presenting with LBP from 1 August 2016 to 31 July 2017 (Health Research Authority

SUBMITTER: Capsey M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8892451 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature