Classification of patients with low back-related leg pain: a systematic review

Abstract

Background

The identification of clinically relevant subgroups of low back pain (LBP) is considered the number one LBP research priority in primary care. One subgroup of LBP patients are those with back related leg pain. Leg pain frequently accompanies LBP and is associated with increased levels of disability and higher health costs than simple low back pain. Distinguishing between different types of low back-related leg pain (LBLP) is important for clinical management and research applications, but there is currently no clear agreement on how to define and identify LBLP due to nerve root involvement.

The aim of this systematic review was to identify, describe and appraise papers that classify or subgroup populations with LBLP, and summarise how leg pain due to nerve root involvement is described and diagnosed in the various systems.

Methods

The search strategy involved nine electronic databases including Medline and Embase, reference lists of eligible studies and relevant reviews. Selected papers were appraised independently by two reviewers using a standardised scoring tool.

Results

Of 13,358 initial potential eligible citations, 50 relevant papers were identified that reported on 22 classification systems. Papers were grouped according to purpose and criteria of the classification systems. Five themes emerged: (i) clinical features (ii) pathoanatomy (iii) treatment-based approach (iv) screening tools and prediction rules and (v) pain mechanisms. Three of the twenty two systems focused specifically on LBLP populations.

Systems that scored highest following quality appraisal were ones where authors generally included statistical methods to develop their classifications, and supporting work had been published on the systems’ validity, reliability and generalisability. There was lack of consistency in how LBLP due to nerve root involvement was described and diagnosed within the systems.

Conclusion

Numerous classification systems exist that include patients with leg pain, a minority of them focus specifically on distinguishing between different presentations of leg pain. Further work is needed to identify clinically meaningful subgroups of LBLP patients, ideally based on large primary care cohort populations and using recommended methods for classification system development.

Background

To tackle the global burden of low back pain (LBP) [1], researchers in primary care have highlighted the identification of clinically relevant subgroups of LBP as the number one research priority [2]. Extensive work has been published on classification systems, where researchers and clinicians have attempted to subgroup LBP patients into homogeneous populations with similar characteristics, with the aim of optimising management and improving patient outcomes. One subgroup of LBP patients are those with leg pain related to their back pain. Low back-related leg pain (LBLP) is one of the commonest variations of LBP, with about two thirds of LBP patients presenting with it in primary and secondary care settings [3–5].

Leg pain can be classified as either radicular pain due to spinal nerve root involvement (NRI), or referred (non-specific) pain due to back pain that spreads down the leg from structures such as ligament, joint or disc but not involving a spinal nerve root [6]. Leg pain is considered an obstacle to recovery [7, 8], or a marker of severity [4], and the further the pain radiates down the leg, the greater the likelihood of increased levels of disability and health care use, particularly when associated with evidence of positive neurological findings [9].

The majority of published guidelines on LBP [10] advocate identifying patients with leg pain thought to be due to NRI. Treatment options for NRI may be different from those for non-nerve root pain [11], and appropriate diagnosis may therefore reduce unnecessary tests and interventions and result in timelier directing of appropriate diagnostic and treatment resources [12]. However, the diagnosis of radicular pain in clinical practice can be difficult [3, 13], and clinicians may disagree as to its presence or absence in a patient with LBLP [14, 15].

A range of definitions and terms are used to describe LBLP due to spinal NRI (including sciatica, radicular pain, radiculopathy, radiating pain, disc herniation), and various diagnostic criteria are used clinically and in the literature to define populations of LBLP [16–18]. This hampers effective communication between clinicians, and with patients, and can limit applicability of research findings from prognostic and intervention studies if eligibility criteria vary for the supposedly same subgroup of LBLP patients.

Despite the implications to the patient, and the wider community, of having LBLP, its classification has received limited attention in the literature and guidelines, compared to LBP alone, especially in the primary care setting. A systematic review of the scientific literature was carried out to compile an up-to-date review of proposed classification systems for LBLP. The objectives of the review were to (i) describe the various ways LBLP is classified and the methods used to derive the classification systems (ii) appraise the classification systems using a specific tool and (iii) identify how leg pain due to NRI is described and diagnosed in the various systems.

Methods

Search strategy

An electronic search was conducted in July 2013 of MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, AMED, PEDro, Web of Science, Cochrane library, DARE and HTA. All databases were searched from their inception. No date or language restriction was applied. An updated search was performed in August 2015. The Medline search strategy is shown in Additional file 1. Supplementary search strategies included hand searching reference lists of included full-text papers and relevant systematic reviews, and a PubMed search of first authors of the included classification systems, to identify any additional relevant published work. Authors were contacted if any clarification on their system was needed.

Study selection

The eligibility criteria for study selection used in this review are summarised in Table 1. Titles were initially screened by one reviewer (SS). When eligibility could not be determined on the basis of the title, abstracts were reviewed. To select full text papers, two reviewers (SS, KK) independently screened titles and abstracts of the remaining citations. Any disagreements were resolved through discussion and consensus. Selected full text papers and additional papers identified in reference lists of the included full text papers were screened by the same two reviewers and final agreement was reached on which papers to be included in the review.

Table 1 Study eligibility criteria

Data extraction and quality appraisal

The framework used to describe and appraise the identified classification systems was originally developed by Buchbinder et al. [19] and subsequently used in other reviews for classifying LBP populations [20–23]. Data extraction included purpose of the study; method of development referring to either a judgement based approach or using statistical methods; domain of interest referring to patient population and setting; specific exclusions for patients; categories within the system and whether additional dimensions (axis) to the condition were considered (e.g. severity or chronicity of symptoms); criteria used to assign patients to categories (e.g. clinical examination); and training and personnel needed to perform the classification.

Seven criteria were addressed to appraise the methodological quality of the classification systems; these are described in Table 2. A score of 1 was awarded for meeting a criterion, 0.5 for partially meeting a criterion and 0 for not meeting a criterion or unable to score due to lack of evidence. A total score of 7 could be achieved. To derive the score, any supporting studies (reporting on reliability, construct validity, generalisability) for the classification systems were included. Two reviewers (SS and KK) independently appraised the selected classification systems.

Table 2 Criteria used to appraise classification systems (adapted from Buchbinder et al. [19])

Results

Search results

The database search yielded 16,891 references, and an additional 21 papers were identified through hand searches of reference lists. 13,358 records remained after duplicate removal. Following initial screening by one reviewer to exclude papers that were clearly irrelevant, 417 remaining titles and abstracts were selected and subsequently screened independently by two reviewers. 122 articles were identified for full text review. From these, 50 were selected for inclusion which reported on 22 classification systems. A flow diagram summarising the systematic search and study selection process is given in Fig. 1.

Fig. 1

Flow chart of systematic search and study selection

Data extraction and appraisal of selected studies

Based on approaches used in previous LBP classification reviews [22–24], the 22 classification systems were organised into five themes reflecting the purpose and criteria of the classification system: (i) clinical features (ii) pathoanatomical source of pain (iii) treatment based approach (iv) screening tools and clinical prediction rules and (v) pain mechanisms. Data extraction from the papers is presented in Tables 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7. Each table presents one of the classification system themes and gives a descriptive summary of the individual papers within each theme. Quality appraisal of each methodological criterion for the 22 classification systems was done (Additional file 2) and the overall score for each system was calculated (Table 8).

Table 3 Data extraction for classification systems: Systems classifying by Clinical Features

Table 4 Data extraction for classification systems: Systems classifying by Pathoanatomy

Table 5 Data extraction for classification systems: Systems classifying by Treatment based approach

Table 6 Data extraction for classification systems: Systems classifying by Screening Tool/Prediction Rule

Table 7 Data extraction for classification systems: Systems classifying by Pain Mechanisms

Table 8 Overview of classification systems organised by themes and accompanying scores

General summary of classification systems organised by themes

Clinical features

Six papers described classification systems according to clinical signs and symptoms (Table 3). They scored low using the appraisal tool (median score 3, interquartile range (IQR) =1). With the exception of the Quebec Task Force Classification (QTFC) system [25], there was no supporting work on the systems’ validity and generalizability. One system [26] used statistical methods to derive clusters of LBP patterns. Development methods for the other five systems were judgement based. Although the QTFC system was judgement based, a multidisciplinary task force representing a wide range of disciplines were engaged to develop the system categories.

The QTFC has been extensively investigated and adapted. The first four categories, which do not involve information from advanced imaging such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), have shown good discriminative ability [27] with the more severe/disabling categories associated with poorer function and inability to return to work [28, 29], poorer movement quality [30], higher presence of neuropathic pain [31], less favourable response to treatment [32] and the probability of surgical treatment increasing from category 2 (pain + radiation proximal extremity) to category 6 (spinal nerve root compression confirmed by imaging) [33]. In a Danish study [5], 2673 patients were classified into one of the first four subgroups of the QTFC, and patients with signs of NRI were the ones most severely affected in terms of pain, disability, work participation and psychosocial profile. In a prospective study using the same dataset [34], leg pain, with or without neurological signs, predicted activity limitation and time off work but was not influenced by whether the pain is above or below the knee. One study has compared the QTFC (categories 1 to 4) system to classifying whether leg pain centralized or peripheralised [35]. Both systems could differentiate between groups’ baseline pain intensity and disability, but the classification method by leg pain centralisation or peripheralisation was superior in predicting treatment outcomes and long term work status. Ben Debba et al. [36] used categories 1 to 4 of the 11 category QTFC, with the addition of the straight leg raise test to determine the presence of neurological signs and showed good discriminative ability between the categories.

We did not identify any reliability studies for the QTFC system. Glassman et al. [37] established substantial reliability (kappa = 0.698) among physicians reviewing case histories. Sweetman et al. [26] reported 70 % reproducibility when their classification algorithm was used on a smaller sample of 80 LBP patients.

Pathoanatomy

The purpose of the six pathoanatomical classification systems (Table 4) was to identify a pathology or anatomical structure responsible for a person’s LBP. In two of the six systems [38, 39], specific treatments were suggested for the identified categories. Overall, on the appraisal tool, the systems scored low (median score = 3.25, interquartile range (IQR) =0.875) mainly due to lack of supporting work on the systems’ validity and generalisability. All used a judgement approach for development.

The number of categories in all systems ranged from two [40] to twenty-two categories [41] with overlap of identified categories among the six systems. All recognised the lumbar disc as a pain source. Facet joint was included in five of the systems, and four systems included stenosis. Leg pain of radicular origin was considered in all six groups but under varying nomenclature and criteria for diagnosis (Table 9). There was some evidence of supporting validity work. Cassisi et al. [40] explored differences in pain, disability and psychological function between their two groups of myofascial pain and disc herniation. Hahne et al. [38] designed their classification system for use in a planned clinical trial to compare specific physiotherapy treatment to physiotherapy advice for the five subgroups of LBP. Results show a reduction in activity limitation and back and leg pain intensity across a 52-week follow-up for patients who received 10 individual sessions relative to two sessions of guideline-recommended advice [42].

Table 9 Terms and clinical criteria used to describe nerve root involvement among the classification systems

Petersen et al. [39] detailed content validity for several of their categories. A follow-up study showed that six of the most common pathoanatomical categories in their system, diagnosed by physiotherapists in chronic LBP patients, had low agreement (kappa of 0.31) with chosen reference standards (advanced imaging tests, injections or discography) [43]. Two systems were tested for reliability among clinicians and reported good inter-rater reliability [44, 45]. Petersen et al. [39] acknowledged that their system was difficult to perform and would take up to one hour. Paatelma et al. [44] reported their system took 30 min to subdivide patients into one of its 5 categories. These were the only 2 out of all 22 classification systems that gave information on how long the assessments would take to perform. Both these systems and the one by Hahne et al. [38] required training for the clinicians using them.

A group of Canadian chiropractors created a diagnostic classification system based on available evidence [46]. They began with Petersen et al’s [39] pathoanatomical system and modified some of the categories, but also added or updated diagnostic criteria based on available evidence. No validation or reliability work has been subsequently published to support their system, but they do base many of their diagnostic criteria on available statistically derived diagnostic models. For example, compressive radiculopathy is a subcategory within a neuropathic pain category. They used clinical assessment items identified from a statistically derived diagnostic tool [47] and added the score from a neuropathic pain tool (Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS)) score to assign patients to this category.

Treatment-based approach

The four treatment-based classification systems (Table 5) are designed to guide specific treatment allocation to LBP patients. They scored a median of 4.5 (IQR 1.5) points. All systems were developed based on the judgement approach of the authors. Delitto et al’s classification [48] involved an expert panel.

In the McKenzie system [49], also known as Mechanical Diagnosis and Therapy (MDT), patients are classified according to how their symptoms respond to repeated spinal movements and sustained positions [50]. Since its development in 1981 several studies have been published supporting its validity, reliability and generalisability. A systematic review and meta-analysis [51] evaluating the effectiveness of the McKenzie approach concluded that in patients with acute LBP, the McKenzie method produces similar improvements in pain or disability as passive therapy and advice to stay active. In a later RCT where all patients received information, advice and either manipulation or McKenzie based treatment, a more favourable outcome was seen with the McKenzie approach at 2 months follow up [52]. Subgroup analysis based on this RCT showed that peripheralisation of leg symptoms (towards the feet) and NRI were predictors of good treatment outcome with the Mckenzie treatment. The authors reflect that peripheralisation of symptoms was not the expected direction and acknowledge patient numbers were small and confidence intervals wide [53]. A review concluded that there is high strength of evidence of substantial agreement among clinicians certified (formally trained and successfully completing an examination) in the McKenzie approach for classifying patients [24]. A more recent reliability study involving 1662 patients and 47 raters indicated that inter-rater reliability was not acceptable for therapists at any level of McKenzie training [54].

Hall et al. [55] described five patterns of LBP including leg pain, with the dominant pattern determining the appropriate treatment. Despite basing their classification on clinical assessment, the authors offer explanations for patients of ‘painful disc’, ‘worn spinal joints’, ‘pinched nerve’ and ‘bony spurs within the spine’ for categories I to IV respectively. A later study [56] compared outcomes in patients classified according to their system, with patients managed without a classification system and concluded that classification had a positive effect on pain relief post treatment, resulted in less treatment days and patients were less likely to use pain medication. Weaknesses of this validation study included use of a double - cohort study design, i.e. comparison of two cohorts and not a randomised controlled trial, which meant significant differences at baseline between the usual care groups and the classified group. The intervention for the non-classified patients was also poorly described. The reliability of the Hall et al’s [55] system was good (kappa =0.6) [57]. It is currently being implemented in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan as part of the Saskatchewan clinical spine pathway (SSP) to manage patients with LBP in primary care [58]. Based on a sample of 87 LBP patients, implementation of the pathway showed reduction in MRI utilisation and referrals seen by surgeons for nonoperative care, suggesting a potential for cost savings [59] and the process suggests reduction in waiting times and costs by timely direction of suitable patients for surgical review [60]. Further studies are underway to assess the efficacy of the SSP.

Albert et al. [61] classified patients with sciatica (radicular pain) according to whether their leg pain centralized, peripheralised or did not change. Other sources refer to this classification as pain pattern classification [35]. All patients received exercise and advice. Similar improvements in activity limitation and leg pain were seen in those who were categorised as ‘centralisers’ and in those whose symptoms ‘peripheralised’, which refutes some of the proposed McKenzie model theory. Additionally, symptoms centralized in over 90 % of patients with MRI confirmed sequestrated or extruded discs.

Clinical guidelines published by the Orthopaedic group of the American Physical Therapy Association [48] proposed a function/impairment based classification for LBP. The system classifies patients with and without leg pain into eleven mutually exclusive impairment patterns. Each category has a recommended treatment approach. Although no supporting work was identified in the review that examines reliability, validity or generalizability of the system, the authors designed the treatment system based on the validation work done by others.

Screening tools/Clinical prediction rules

Three papers were grouped under screening tools and prediction rules (Table 6), scoring a median of 3 points (IQR 1). All combined judgement and statistical approaches to system development but had limited follow-up supporting studies. The purpose was to identify clinical features that either guide diagnosis [62, 63], or assist with treatment selection [64]. They are grouped together due to similar concepts and methodology. Scholz et al. [62] used statistical analysis to identify the most discriminatory items from a neuropathic pain assessment tool (Standardized Evaluation of Pain (StEP)) to differentiate between LBP patients with and without radicular leg pain. Using cluster analysis they also identified 4 subtypes with similar pain patterns. Roach et al. [63] developed screening test algorithms, based on patients’ answers to a Pain Response to Activity and Position questionnaire, to place patients into four predetermined “structure-based” diagnostic classifications. A judgement approach method was used to preselect the four LBP categories of disc; spinal stenosis; disc disease with spinal stenosis and benign LBP. Fritz et al. [64] identified a subgroup of LBLP patients with signs of nerve root compression, likely to respond to mechanical traction and found that baseline variables associated with greater improvements with traction were peripheralisation of leg symptoms with extension movement and a cross-over SLR. Subsequent validation of the algorithms in Roach et al’s study [63] led to misclassification of a substantial number of patients. Scholz et al’s [62] tool identified patients with radicular pain with high sensitivity and specificity. No published work was available on application of the rules to different population groups. The reliability of the reference standard or diagnostic categories was not tested in any of the studies. Test retest reliability of Roach et al’s [63] screening algorithms had kappa values ranging from 0.57 to 0.91, for the 4 diagnostic categories, suggesting good to almost perfect reliability.

Pain mechanisms

Three pain mechanism classification system studies were identified (Table 7) scoring a median 5 points (IQR 2.5). Schafer et al. [65] specifically designed their system for LBLP patients. All systems were initially developed using a judgement approach. Smart et al. [66] subsequently used statistical analysis to identify discriminatory clusters of signs and symptoms associated with each of the categories. There is considerable overlap in the categories proposed by the three systems.

Smart et al ‘s [66] system has three categories: (i) Central sensitisation pain (CSP) (ii) Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP) and (iii) Nociceptive pain (NP). Standardised clinical interview and examination are used to categorise patients plus a number of additional pain response symptoms (e.g. spontaneous paroxysmal pain and dysesthesia) and physical signs such as allodynic response and painful response to nerve palpation [67]. Supporting the discriminant validity of their system, the authors showed that the CSP group had the most self-report pain, disability, anxiety and depression and poorest health related quality of life compared to the PNP and NP group [68]. A similar pattern was seen between the PNP and NP groups with the PNP group having poorer outcomes compared to the NP group. Schafer et al. [65] described a four category system: (i) Central sensitisation (renamed in a later paper as “Neuropathic sensitisation (NS)” [69]); (ii) Denervation; (iii) Peripheral nerve sensitisation (PNS), and (iv) Musculoskeletal. The LANSS neuropathic self-report pain scale score was used for all four categories. 77 LBLP patients were classified according to the Schafer et al system and all had 7 sessions of neural mobilisation [69]. As hypothesised, improvement in outcomes was greatest for the PNS group supporting the predictive validity of one of their classification subgroups. Another study showed that the PNS group had greater disability than all groups and more fear avoidance beliefs compared to central sensitisation and denervation groups [70]. This was considered a surprising outcome as these results would have been expected more from the central sensitisation group and suggestive that the criteria for the described classification schemes do not clearly differentiate between the three subgroups [71]. Further work to demonstrate the construct validity of their system showed differences in pain hypersensitivity as measured by Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST) between the Neuropathic pain and Denervation groups compared to controls [72]. However, no significant differences were found between the four pain groups which the authors recognised as weakening the construct validity of the classification system. Inter-rater reliability was reported for both of these systems. In 40 patients with LBLP, reliability was substantial (kappa = 0.72, 95 % CI 0.57–0.86) among five pairs of examiners using the Schafer et al classification [73]. Smart et al. [74] used two examiners and reliability was substantial (kappa = 0.77, 95 % CI 0.56–0.96). Intra-rater reliability was almost perfect (kappa = 0.96, 95 % CI = 0.92–1.0) with the developer of the system re-examining the patients within 6–56 days of their initial assessment.

The three pain mechanism groups of nociceptive, neuropathic and central sensitisation are the basis of the third pain mechanism system [75] and, based on a consensus approach of pain experts, the authors apply the criteria for each category to back pain. The authors state that chronic lumbar radicular pain is the most common neuropathic pain syndrome and apply classification criteria for neuropathic pain to LBP. These screening criteria include sensory testing (response to vibration/temperature, pin prick), evidence from diagnostic investigations such as MRI and pain extending below the knee. It is difficult to interpret where patients fit in the classification system if they have some of the neuropathic symptoms i.e. below knee pain, dermatomal pain distribution, burning/shooting/prickling pain but do not score positively on the QST tests. The paper focused predominantly on identification and treatment options for the central sensitisation pain group using criteria from Smart et al’s [66] work.

Summary of classification systems

A summary of the strengths and weaknesses of the 22 classification systems based on the quality appraisal scoring tool is presented in Fig. 2. The majority of the systems were clear on the purpose of their classification system. Validity of the systems scored poorly, in particular content and construct validity. Reliability data was available on a small number of the systems and only two commented on the feasibility of their approach. Judging the generalisability of the systems was limited. There was evidence of some of the systems being used in different settings but mainly to test issues of validity and reliability. Only one system [55] is currently being implemented in primary care.

Fig. 2

Methodological quality summary of the 22 classification systems based on the appraisal tool

How is LBLP due to NRI described and diagnosed?

The terminology used for categories with NRI within the classification systems was listed to assess consistency of terms and the clinical criteria within these categories were explored. This is presented in Table 9. Up to 11 different terms were used to describe NRI presentations. The most frequently used terms were sciatica, nerve root, disc and spinal stenosis. But within these terms there was variation, for example nerve root was described as involvement, adherent, compression or irritation. Table 9 quantifies how often features from history and physical examination were used in total by the 22 classification systems. Ten of the 22 systems mentioned “pain below the knee”; 5 out of 22 used “patient’s leg pain was greater than the back pain”. Findings from clinical examination also showed considerable variability. Neurological deficits and positive neural tension tests were both mentioned in 14 of the 22 systems, but criteria varied from being quite prescriptive, specifying at least one of reflex, sensory or muscle strength deficit, to being quite vague with phrases such as “may have” neurological deficits.

Discussion

Following a comprehensive systematic search of the literature, 22 systems were identified that classified patients with back and leg pain. Only three of the systems focused specifically on LBLP patients [61, 64, 65]. There was a lack of consistency between classification systems when describing NRI and its clinical attributes. The definitions and diagnostic criteria for NRI varied widely among the systems, which mirrors findings from recent reviews on eligibility criteria in studies involving LBLP patients [16, 17]. Consensus on how to define leg pain due to NRI and agreement on clinical criteria to distinguish patients with spinal NRI is needed. If eligibility criteria were more consistent across studies this would enhance communication with patients and among clinicians when discussing diagnosis and possible treatment outcomes (16–18).

The call to identify clinically relevant subgroups of LBP patients has been a top priority in primary care back pain research since the mid-1990s, and researchers have responded accordingly with a proliferation of subgroup studies [2]. Several published reviews have appraised LBP classification systems, each with a slightly different focus, but primarily the emphasis has been on non-specific low back pain classification. This is the first review to look specifically at the classification of patients with LBLP.

The quality of the 22 systems varied, and those that scored higher on the appraisal tool were ones with evidence of more robust methods of development and more supporting published work on reliability, validity and generalisability. The majority of the systems used a judgement approach to development, ranging from authors opinion to expert consensus panels. Some systems used statistical methods to identify clusters of symptoms that best discriminate between patients, giving objective means of identifying subgroups of patients which helps to avoid author bias. Relying on statistical clustering in isolation can give rise to content validity issues, with subgroups not clinically recognisable or identifiable. Using a combined approach of judgement, preferably with group consensus and statistical methods to identify subgroups, is recommended [76] but only one system did this [66]. Among the systems of classifying according to clinical features, the QTFC system [25] scored highest on the quality appraisal tool. It has been extensively investigated, validated and adapted and has widespread application in research with many studies using the first four categories to explore differences among groups and investigate their prognosis. For these reasons, and considering its simplicity and brevity, it seems well placed for use in primary care. However to enhance consistency of this classification, it does require more detailed clarification of the clinical criteria for neurological involvement in category 4.

Pathoanatomical classification systems generally scored low on the appraisal tool, primarily because development was mainly based on authors’ opinion. Many consider the pathoanatomical approach, which seeks to associate specific structures with symptoms, as outdated and unhelpful to patients. It is thought to lead to overuse of diagnostic procedures with subsequent implications on cost and patients’ expectations if findings do not match clinical symptoms [58]. A review of recommendations for LBP clinical practice [77] noted that none of the guidelines recommend that clinicians should attempt to identify specific anatomical structures involved in LBP once potentially serious spinal pathology, specific causes and substantial neurological involvement have been ruled out. Others argue that identification of a cause for LBP is important for patients and the main reason for seeing a primary care practitioner [40]. Neglecting patients’ expectations can impact negatively on patient satisfaction and ‘diagnostic uncertainty’, or inadequate explanation of cause, can lead to higher levels of depression [78] and fear avoidance beliefs [3] in LBP patients.

The treatment based approach classification systems included the McKenzie system which is a popular treatment based approach among clinicians, despite evidence that it is not superior to other treatments. An additional three papers were grouped under screening tools and prediction rules, where statistical methods were used to identify cluster of items to assist diagnosis or prognosis. Classification according to pain mechanisms is gaining popularity in musculoskeletal medicine and three papers applied this system to LBLP [65, 66, 75]. Shafer and colleagues [65] designed their system specifically for LBLP patients. Some confusion arises comparing the nomenclature and criteria of the pain mechanism subgroups. Leg pain with NRI was categorised as denervation or peripheral sensitisation by Schafer et al. [65], as peripheral neuropathic pain by Smart et al. [66] and predominantly neuropathic pain by Nijs et al. [75]. All had different clinical criteria. Schafer’s system [65] has made good efforts to validate their system but has struggled to demonstrate discriminative validity of the categories. This may reflect the judgement based development process of the system. A more robust method including statistical techniques and consensus could serve to improve the validity of the system and assign criteria that allow clearer differentiation between the subgroups.

Smart et al. [67] used statistical methods to identify three items from history and physical examination items that were predictive of peripheral neuropathic: history of nerve injury, pathology or compromise; pain in a dermatomal distribution and positive neurodynamic tests. They recognized that these items differ considerably from criteria found in neuropathic pain screening tools and reflect that it may be because their patients were recruited from primary care settings with less severe presentations than the more severe pain populations in studies from which these questionnaires were derived.

Schafer et al. [65] defined their denervation group as patients with at least two neurological deficits (motor, sensory or reflex). Yet despite these neurological deficits indicative of nerve root compromise, this category also includes a LANSS screening tool score of less than 12, indicative of a low probability of neuropathic pain, at least by self-report. Contrary to this, the categories of compressive and non-compressive radiculopathy in Vining et al’s [46] pathoanatomical system, have a LANSS score of 12 or over, suggesting all radicular pain has a high probability of being neuropathic. Nijs et al. [75] have different screening criteria for neuropathic pain in LBP which includes confirmation of a nervous system abnormality with diagnostic testing e.g. EMG or imaging.

Strengths and limitations

This is the first review that has focused specifically on classification of LBLP. The search identified over 13,000 citations for initial screening. This large number reflects the breadth of the search strategy and large number of databases searched with minimal restrictions. The broad search strategy was deemed necessary to include all possible terms that could be used to describe LBLP and classification and avoid missing any systems. The search strategy was supplemented by first author searches and hand searching reference lists. Identified systems were not excluded on the basis of quality and study appraisal was systematically and independently carried out by two reviewers. Other systems or supporting evidence may have been missed e.g. unpublished student studies or cases of publication bias if findings were unsupportive of the system.

References were initially missed and 21 of the 50 papers in the systematic review were identified through supplementary search strategies. Despite the comprehensive search strategy which included up to 34 terms to describe LBLP, a possible reason for missing several papers is because of the vast nomenclature used to describe and identify LBLP.

Conclusion

A primary aim of identifying groups of patients with similar characteristics or diagnostic entities is to guide management, as homogeneous groups may respond more favourably to certain management options. However, the first step is to be able to identify these groups with reasonable diagnostic certainty based on generally accepted characteristics.

The classification of LBLP merits more attention, especially in primary care settings where most of these patients are assessed and managed. This should start with agreement on the criteria that reasonably distinguishes NRI from pain referred into the leg from structures in the back other than the nerve root. An approach that uses data from large, unselected groups of primary care patients to classify them according to relevant characteristics from self-reported measures, clinical examination findings and perhaps even demographic information, deserves more attention to appreciate the clinical characteristics of this subgroup of LBP patients. This methodology has been used more often in systems to subgroup psychosocial characteristics in chronic LBP patients [22] and it is equally applicable in LBLP classification.

A greater understanding of the profile of LBLP patients could help shape future research questions and directions in this subgroup of patients in terms of prognostic and effectiveness studies.

Additional editorial policies

Research involving animals: not applicable.

Research involving plants: not applicable.

Trial registration: not applicable. The systematic review protocol was not registered.

Standards of reporting: The PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews were followed.

Describing new taxa: not applicable.