Taking The Pain out of Low Back Pain

This education session aims to strengthen general practitioners’ confidence in the clinical assessment and management of both acute and chronic back pain.

This education event is an opportunity to learn from Subject Matter Experts in interactive plenary sessions and workshops, dealing with the practicalities of back pain management faced in general practice.

• Dr John Moi | Rheumatologist - Royal Melbourne Hospital
• A/Professor Malcolm Hogg | Pain Management Specialist - Royal Melbourne Hospital
• Mr Adam De Gruchy | Physiotherapist - Royal Melbourne Hospital
• A/Professor Patsy Robertson | Radiologist - Royal Melbourne Hospital
• Mr Sach Fernando | Lawyer and WorkCover Expert
• Mr Yashwant Rathi | Physiotherapist - Merri Health

Learning outcomes:

1. Conduct an assessment of acute and chronic back pain that includes a review of red flag symptoms and clinical indications for imaging.
2. Interpret the findings of a structured back examination, including provocative tests and targeted neurological examination of the lower limbs.
3. Assess the benefits of non-pharmacological management of nonspecific back pain and recognise the role of allied health professionals.
4. Implement a system for the monitoring of prescribing, de-prescribing, managing permits, managing medication interactions and screening for adverse effects.  
5. Apply the principles of effective return to work planning and produce appropriate WorkSafe documentation.