Question

A 45-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting a heavy box. There is no trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological deficit or history of cancer. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Advise staying active, simple analgesia and reassurance

Answer

Immediate lumbar spine MRI

Answer

Bed rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Refer urgently to neurosurgery

Answer

High-dose opioids for pain control

Practice question

A 45-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting a heavy box. There is no trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological deficit or history of cancer. What is the most appropriate management?