Emergency department management of patients with low back pain: a review of current evidence.

Low back pain is a common presentation in the emergency department, and determining whether the cause is benign or life-threatening can be challenging. A systematic strategy for the history and physical examination can help reduce unnecessary imaging, and an evidence-based approach will inform safe and effective pain management recommendations. This issue reviews the evidence on red flag signs and symptoms for low back pain, current diagnostic studies recommendations, and best-practice treatment and disposition strategies.