Question

A 44-year-old office worker asks his GP for a sick note for intermittent low back pain of 3 months’ duration. He is still working full-time but finds sitting uncomfortable. There are no red-flag symptoms. He says he wants to be signed off work ‘for a few months’. According to evidence-based back pain and occupational guidance, what is the most appropriate approach?

Accepted Answer

Explain that staying active and at work, with appropriate adjustments, is usually beneficial, and offer analgesia and physiotherapy

Answer

Sign him off work for 3 months to allow full rest

Answer

Advise strict bed rest for 4 weeks

Answer

Tell him back pain is purely psychological and needs no treatment

Answer

Give long-term opioids and sign him off indefinitely

Practice question