Figure 2.

The Quebec Low Back Pain Study methodology. T0 to T4 represent the different data collection time point for all patients enrolled. Everyone will complete the core minimal data set 5 times within the period of 2 years. The baseline questionnaires will be used to categorize patients into acute or chronic LBP and identify risk factors that predict the maintenance of the LBP. At 3 months and for all subsequent time points, LBP status will be re-evaluated along with secondary outcomes. When patients consent, the provincial health plan number (RAMQ, Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec) will be collected to merge with their medical and prescription drug claims. Finally, at any point during their active participation in the study, patients could be solicited to participate in one or more of the ongoing satellite projects. LBP, low back pain.