Analysis of the outcome and costs of lower back pain should not only rely on electronic data but also use real-world experiences

Abstract

Dear Editors,

We enjoyed reading the article by Zanuto et al. on the costs, classification, and effects of physical activity on lower back pain in 198 patients analyzed using the Nordic and Baecke questionnaire at baseline and 6, 12, and 18 months later. Lower back pain was associated with female sex and young age and incurred high costs for medical consultations, while cycling was much cheaper. Although this study is noteworthy, several points must be discussed.