Back pain is one of the most common reasons cited by patients seeking medical help, and it is a leading cause of time off work and long term disability. Causes of back pain are complex and many health care professionals devote a substantial amount of their time dealing with it. The initiating event leading to back pain is often compounded by other factors leading to maladaptive behaviour and prolongation of pain. This pocketbook will summarise the current literature on management of back pain and provide evidence-based, practical guidelines for clinicians.