Question

A 45-year-old warehouse worker presents with low back pain for 2 weeks after lifting heavy boxes. There is no history of trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological symptoms or sphincter disturbance. Examination is normal with no neurological deficit. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Advise early mobilisation, simple analgesia and reassurance

Answer

Urgent MRI spine and neurosurgical referral

Answer

Immediate bed rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Prescribe long-term benzodiazepines for muscle spasm

Answer

Start strong opioids as first-line analgesia

Practice question

A 45-year-old warehouse worker presents with low back pain for 2 weeks after lifting heavy boxes. There is no history of trauma, weight loss, fever, neurological symptoms or sphincter disturbance. Examination is normal with no neurological deficit. What is the most appropriate management?