Search terms are given for each database. Details of individual studies were presented in the tables and discussed in the text. A few trials suggest that manual therapy is more effective in patients with radiating pain and subacute or recurrent exacerbation of pain than conventional physiotherapy. The benefit of physiotherapy is not clear as compared with placebo. Recent trials suggest that adequate reassurance and advice coupled with the early resumption of normal activity may be more effective than physiotherapy interventions.
Bed rest appears to have a deleterious effect on recovery and return to work.
The evidence on the effectiveness of manipulation and conventional physiotherapy for patients with chronic LBP is conflicting. Some evidence suggests that manipulation and conventional physiotherapy may offer comparable long-term therapeutic benefits, compared to placebo groups. Limited evidence suggests that physical reconditioning can improve chronic LBP sufferers' levels of functioning and pain report. Back school appears to have little useful effect on knowledge or pain perception and disability. The effectiveness of operant conditioning and cognitive therapy is uncertain in relieving either pain or disability.