Back Schools Three investigators are credited with the development of the back school program as we know it. The concept of using an educational format for the treatment of low back pain originated with Fahri and Orth. Hall's program with the Canadian Back School is directed toward attitude change with patients assuming responsibility for their health status. This attitude change is accomplished through group education about spinal anatomy, body mechanics, flexion exercises, pain and stress management, and relaxation techniques. Secondary care involves rehabilitation of the acute or subacute injury for the purpose of recovery and prevention of recurrence.
Tertiary prevention focuses on returning individuals with chronic back pain to work.
Emphasis is placed on self-care and responsibility, as well as improving symptom behavior and altering perception of pain. The use of conditioning exercises to prevent back injury or decrease the frequency and duration of injury has been well documented. The goal of any treatment program must produce remission of symptoms to the extent that patients may return to their previous level of function. Clinically, the treatment guidelines can be divided into a temporal sequence consisting of the resolution of acute pain, restoration of movement and activity and prevention of recurrence and chronicity. Acute Symptom Control Acute care consists of controlling back symptoms while avoiding the debilitating effects of bed rest.