Red flags in low back pain: the importance for the physiotherapist as a first contact professional

Abstract

Introduction: Low back pain is a collective health problem that can be accompanied by red flags, a set of alerts for clinical investigation and a prognostic factor. Objective: To evaluate the role of red flags in the screening process for patients with low back pain. Methods: Consultations in electronic databases: PubMed and EBSCO. The descriptors used in the search for articles were: red flags, low back pain and screening. The inclusion criteria were case-control studies, a 5-year filter, cross-sectional, longitudinal studies and randomized clinical trials, and the exclusion criteria were studies carried out with animals, review articles and studies that did not address the clinical characteristics of red flags. Results: 10 articles were included, 4 from the PubMed platform, 4 from the EBSCO platform and 2 inserted by the authors. Discussion: The recognition of the warning signs for the first contact professional, especially when there is an association of risk factors was well performed, however studies show that there is difficulty regarding referral without interventions in cases of red flags and that the greater the experience professional, the greater the probability of success in referring or treating the patient. Finally, to increase the chances of success, it is recommended that the professional rely on the most current evidence. Conclusion: It is concluded that the process of referral of patients is complex and requires a thorough evaluation, so it is important to properly train professionals, as well as greater adherence to evidence-based practice.