Question

A 45-year-old man with acute low back pain for 5 weeks after lifting at work has no neurological deficits, normal systemic examination and no red flags. He is requesting an MRI "to be safe". What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Reassure, continue conservative management and do not order imaging

Answer

Order an urgent lumbar spine MRI

Answer

Order lumbar spine plain radiographs

Answer

Order CT scan of the lumbar spine

Answer

Refer urgently to neurosurgery

Practice question

A 45-year-old man with acute low back pain for 5 weeks after lifting at work has no neurological deficits, normal systemic examination and no red flags. He is requesting an MRI "to be safe". What is the most appropriate next step?