According to Dr. Nachemson M.D., P.H.D. and his group of scientist (orthopedic- and neuro- surgeons, medical doctors, biomechanists, physical therapists, sociologists, psychologist, epidemiologists and economists) here is what their studies found:
NOT EFFECTIVE
1. There is no acceptable evidence on the efficacy of any form of fusion for back pain or instability.
2. There is no acceptable evidence on the efficacy of any form of decompression for degenerative lumbar disc disease or spinal stenosis.
3. There is no evidence on whether any form of surgery for degenerative lumbar disc disease is effective in returning patients to work.
4. There is strong evidence that bed rest is not effective for treating acute lower back pain.
5. There is no evidence on the effectiveness of ultrasound, heat, ice or short-wave diathermy for treating acute lower back pain.
EFFECTIVE
1. There is consistent evidence that exercise is effective in treating and preventing back and neck pain and dysfunction.
2. There is consistent evidence that advice on staying active is effective in treating and preventing back and neck pain.
3. There is evidence on anti-inflammatory medication for helping inflammation.
For doctors and therapists who want to read more on the subject read Neck and Back Pain, The Scientific Evidence of Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment by Alf L. Nachemson and Egon Jonsson
