Evaluation of knowledge levels related to acute low back pain management among emergency medicine residents and specialist physicians

This study aims to evaluate the knowledge levels of emergency medicine residents and specialists regarding the management of acute low back pain. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted with residents and specialists working in the Emergency Department of Akdeniz University Faculty of Medicine. Ethical approval was obtained prior to the study, and the physicians were informed about the study, with their consent collected electronically. A total of 121 participants were included in the study. Participants completed a questionnaire prepared in accordance with clinical guidelines and shared via an online platform. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software, and a significance level of p<0.05 was accepted. Among the participants, 52.9% were specialists, and 45.5% were employed in university hospitals. Of the physicians, 31.4% had 5-10 years of professional experience, 28.9% had 2-5 years, and 28.1% had more than 10 years of experience. Imaging was deemed unnecessary in 78.5% of case 1 and 60.3% of case 2. The use of X-ray imaging was higher in case 2 (27.3%) compared to case 1 (12.4%). Intramuscular NSAIDs were the most frequently used pharmacological treatment for both case 1 (52.9%) and case 2 (47.9%). Among non-pharmacological treatments, physical therapy recommendations ranked first for both genders (89.3% for case 1 and 83.5% for case 2). The most commonly prescribed combination upon discharge was muscle relaxants and NSAIDs, with rates of 57.9% for case 1 and 60.3% for case 2. Regarding referrals, physical therapy and rehabilitation were recommended for 86.8% of case 1 and 81.8% of case 2. The findings of this study indicate that there are areas for improvement in the knowledge levels of emergency department physicians regarding the management of acute low back pain. Accordingly, it is recommended to plan educational and awareness programs to enhance adherence to clinical guidelines.