Distinguishing Features of Somatic-Induced Referred Pain versus Neuropathic Pain in Back Pain Patients with or without Radiating Leg Pain

Low back pain is a prevalent clinical presentation, which often coincides with radiating leg pain. Nervous system related (neuropathic) or transferred pain from somatic lumbar structures (referred pain) may be responsible for this leg pain. Identification of the particular pain source is essential for the relevant treatment strategy.The aim of this systematic review was to analyse the literature with a view towards the distinguishing features of the clinical presentation of “somatic referred pain related” and “neuropathic related” back pain with or without radiating leg pain. The distinguishing features “pain quality” and “physical function assessment” can differentiate between somatic referred pain related and neuropathic related back pain, on the basis of “pain distribution” differentiation is not possible.