Question

A 47-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting a heavy box. He denies leg weakness or sphincter disturbance. Examination shows normal neurology and he can straight leg raise to 70 degrees bilaterally. What is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Advise early mobilisation with simple analgesia such as Paracetamol and NSAIDs if appropriate.

Answer

Arrange urgent MRI spine within 2 weeks.

Answer

Advise bed rest for 1 week and review.

Answer

Refer urgently to neurosurgery clinic.

Answer

Prescribe long-term opioid analgesia.

Practice question

A 47-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting a heavy box. He denies leg weakness or sphincter disturbance. Examination shows normal neurology and he can straight leg raise to 70 degrees bilaterally. What is the most appropriate initial management?