Question

A 50-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box. There is no trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological deficit or history of malignancy. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?

Accepted Answer

Provide advice to stay active, prescribe simple analgesics and avoid routine imaging

Answer

Order lumbar spine MRI immediately

Answer

Order lumbar spine X-ray immediately

Answer

Order CT of the lumbar spine

Answer

Admit for bed rest and traction

Practice question

A 50-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box. There is no trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological deficit or history of malignancy. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate initial management strategy?