Question

A 40-year-old office worker with non-specific low back pain for 4 weeks has normal neurological examination and no red flag features. According to NICE back pain guidance, what is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Encourage activity and exercise, provide simple analgesia and consider physiotherapy if symptoms persist.

Answer

Immediate MRI of the spine to rule out serious pathology.

Answer

Bed rest for 2 weeks and strong opioids.

Answer

Refer urgently to spinal surgery.

Answer

Start long-term Diazepam for muscle spasm.

Practice question

A 40-year-old office worker with non-specific low back pain for 4 weeks has normal neurological examination and no red flag features. According to NICE back pain guidance, what is the most appropriate management?