Question

A 34-year-old woman presents with acute severe low back pain radiating to the right leg with positive straight leg raise and new foot drop. According to emergency spine red flag principles, what is the next best step?

Accepted Answer

Urgent MRI and neurosurgical consultation for suspected cauda equina or severe nerve root compression

Answer

Conservative treatment with NSAIDs and physiotherapy

Answer

Outpatient MRI within 6 weeks

Answer

Plain radiographs only

Answer

Chiropractic manipulation

Practice question

A 34-year-old woman presents with acute severe low back pain radiating to the right leg with positive straight leg raise and new foot drop. According to emergency spine red flag principles, what is the next best step?