Specific Treatment Of Problems of the Spine (STOPS) Trials: Specific physiotherapy treatment and advice versus advice alone for sub-acute reducible discogenic low back pain: a randomised controlled trial.

INTERVENTION: Ten sessions of specific physiotherapy management over 10 weeks, involving 30 minute sessions. Frequency of sessions will be individually tailored based on the individual's progress. Generally, participants will initially attend two sessions per week for the first fortnight and then will attend the final 6 sessions spread out over the final eight weeks. Management will include specific lumbar spine directional preference exercises, taping of the lumbar spine, a gradually progressed core stability exercise program and condition specific advice and education. CONDITION: Reducible discogenic low back pain PRIMARY OUTCOME: Back pain intensity on a 0‐10 Numerical Rating Scale Back specific function (Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire). Leg pain intensity on a 0‐10 Numerical Rating Scale SECONDARY OUTCOME: 7 point Global Perceived Effect scale Interference with work/housework in the last week, measured on a 5‐point scale from "not at all" to "extremely". Number of work days missed in the last 30 days Orebro musculoskeletal pain questionnaire Participant satisfaction (with treatment and outcome) measured on a 5 point scale ranging from "Very Dissatisfied" to "Very Satisfied" Quality of Life (EuroQOL) Rate and nature of adverse events (therapist reporting and open questions to participants). Examples may include increased or new onset of musculoskeletal symptoms, muscular soreness associated with exercises and any others that are reported or observed. Sciatica Frequency and Bothersomeness Scale INCLUSION CRITERIA: Reducible low back pain (with or without associated leg pain) with a directional preference for extension with or without a lateral component, for a duration of 6 weeks to 6 months. Able to understand and read English.