Question

A 54-year-old man with chronic low back pain for 8 months has no red flag features (no weight loss, no fever, normal neurology). He has been taking paracetamol intermittently. According to Australian low back pain guidelines, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?

Accepted Answer

Encourage physical activity and consider referral to physiotherapy and exercise-based program

Answer

Order immediate MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Commence long-term opioid therapy

Answer

Advise strict bed rest until pain resolves

Answer

Start high-dose NSAIDs indefinitely without review

Practice question

A 54-year-old man with chronic low back pain for 8 months has no red flag features (no weight loss, no fever, normal neurology). He has been taking paracetamol intermittently. According to Australian low back pain guidelines, what is the MOST appropriate next step in management?