A new survey has indicated that the government's proposal to introduce 'fit notes' for sufferers of back pain will be difficult to implement.

National director for health and work Dame Carol Black announced plans for a change to the established sick note system last year, with GPs urged to issue fit notes to help patients back into their jobs.

Under the new scheme, doctors would provide details on the type of work a patient with back pain problems might be able to do, rather than what they cannot do, the BBC reports.

However, a survey of 440 GPs by researchers from Nottingham University found that 77 per cent of GPs do not currently take responsibility for getting patients back to work.

"The current government expectation that GPs are able to successfully manage this role may be unrealistic," commented Carolyn Coole, study leader and research occupational therapist.

One-third of the population is thought to be affected by back pain each year.

Ultrasound can be an effective treatment method for the condition, as applying ultrasonic waves to the muscle tissue promotes healing and reduces inflammation.