Question

A 38-year-old man presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting at work. There are no red flag symptoms and neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate management in primary care?

Accepted Answer

Advise remaining active with simple analgesia and no immediate imaging

Answer

Arrange urgent MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Prescribe long-term strong opioids

Answer

Complete bed rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Urgent referral to neurosurgery

Practice question

A 38-year-old man presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting at work. There are no red flag symptoms and neurological examination is normal. What is the most appropriate management in primary care?