Patients may experience more pain and problems with sitting, lifting and standing. Travel and social life are more difficult. Patients may be off work. Personal care, sleeping and sexual activity may not be grossly affected. Conservative treatment may be sufficient.
Pain is a primary problem for these patients, but they may also be experiencing significant problems in travel, personal care, social life, sexual activity and sleep. A detailed evaluation is appropriate.
Back pain has an impact on all aspects of daily living and work. Active treatment is required.
Reference for Score: Fairbank JC, Pynsent PB, The Oswestry Disability Index. Spine 2000; 25(22):2940-2952.