A 35-year-old man presents with low back pain that began after lifting boxes 3 days ago. The pain does not radiate below the knee. He has no neurologi...

Question

A 35-year-old man presents with low back pain that began after lifting boxes 3 days ago. The pain does not radiate below the knee. He has no neurological deficits, no red-flag symptoms and is systemically well. According to Australian low back pain guidance, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Advice to stay active with simple analgesia and review if not improving

Answer

Immediate lumbar spine MRI

Answer

Bed rest for 1 week

Answer

Early referral for spinal surgery opinion

Answer

Long-term opioid therapy

au-amc MCQ (SBA): Acute non-specific low back pain