Physician referrals of patients with neck and low back pain for physical therapy in outpatient clinics: a cross-sectional study

This study provides comprehensive data that highlight significant trends related to age, acuteness, and sex. Chronic low back and neck pain are the predominant reasons for physical therapy referrals, particularly among women and older adults. Physician referrals for neck and low back pain aligned with the epidemiology of such conditions in the Israeli population, underscoring the need for targeted rehabilitation strategies, early intervention programs, and effective healthcare service planning.