Question

A 38-year-old man presents with low back pain radiating to the left leg for 4 weeks. There are no red flags (no weight loss, fever, neurological deficits or history of cancer). What is the most appropriate management according to Canadian low back pain guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Encourage activity as tolerated, provide analgesia and avoid routine imaging

Answer

Immediate MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Strict bed rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Refer urgently for spinal surgery

Answer

Start long-term opioids as first-line

Practice question

A 38-year-old man presents with low back pain radiating to the left leg for 4 weeks. There are no red flags (no weight loss, fever, neurological deficits or history of cancer). What is the most appropriate management according to Canadian low back pain guidelines?