Ben Cheesman
Ben Cheesman is an Occupational Physician and Fellow of the Australasian Faculty of Occupational and Environmental Medicine of the Royal Australian College of Physicians. He is also a Member of the Royal College of General Practitioners.
Low Back Pain Concurrent Workshop Repeated Saturday, 14 June 2014 Start 2:00pm Duration: 55mins Room 11 Start 3:05pm Duration: 55mins Low back pain is a leading cause of disability, with lifetime prevalence rates reported of 60-80%. While many people do not seek health care when they experience back pain, it remains a very common presentation in primary care and is a frequent reason for referral to the Orthopaedic Clinic. “Lumbar sprain” is a leading diagnosis on ACC claims and a common cause for certified incapacity for work. In GP practice we know that patient outcomes vary hugely with some patients experiencing episodes that resolve quickly, to other patients who have persistent impairment and reduced function. This session will refresh basic assessment of low back pain focussing on what can be achieved in a 15 minute consultation, how to identify and manage “flags” that predict poor outcome. This session will consider common clinical questions including: What is current recommended management? Which patients are likely to benefit from surgical review? What investigation is required? How do I assess and manage fitness for work?