Question

A 38-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting boxes at work. He has no neurological deficits, no history of trauma, no weight loss, no fever and no bowel or bladder disturbance. According to Australian back pain guidance, what is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Provide reassurance, advice to stay active and simple analgesia

Answer

Arrange urgent MRI lumbar spine

Answer

Immediate referral for spinal surgery

Answer

Prescribe strict bed rest for 1 week

Answer

Start long-term opioid therapy

Practice question

A 38-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting boxes at work. He has no neurological deficits, no history of trauma, no weight loss, no fever and no bowel or bladder disturbance. According to Australian back pain guidance, what is the most appropriate management?