Question

A 38-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting heavy boxes. There is no leg weakness, sphincter disturbance or weight loss. Straight leg raise is mildly positive on the left, but power, reflexes and sensation are intact. What is the most appropriate management?

Accepted Answer

Provide advice to remain active, simple analgesia and safety-net for red flags

Answer

Order an urgent MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Advise strict bed rest for 2 weeks

Answer

Prescribe long-term opioids as first-line analgesia

Answer

Refer urgently to spinal surgeon immediately

Practice question

A 38-year-old office worker presents with low back pain for 3 weeks after lifting heavy boxes. There is no leg weakness, sphincter disturbance or weight loss. Straight leg raise is mildly positive on the left, but power, reflexes and sensation are intact. What is the most appropriate management?