Back pain in children.
Back pain in children may be due to many causes, both orthopaedic and nonorthopaedic. As with adults, underlying pathophysiology is frequently multifactoral and includes both physiologic and psychologic components. Assessment should include a thorough age-appropriate history and physical examination, based on presenting symptoms. The nurse should be aware of the child's perception of pain and its meaning, as well as that of the family. Management of back pain in children should include not only referral to appropriate specialists as indicated, but also should include involvement of the family unit in the treatment plan.