Question

A 52-year-old woman presents with long-standing low back pain without red flag features. She is requesting imaging. According to NICE guidance on low back pain and sciatica, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Reassure, encourage physical activity and consider group exercise and physiotherapy

Answer

Order an immediate MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Prescribe long-term opioids and rest

Answer

Refer urgently to neurosurgery

Answer

Order routine lumbar X-ray

Practice question

A 52-year-old woman presents with long-standing low back pain without red flag features. She is requesting imaging. According to NICE guidance on low back pain and sciatica, what is the most appropriate initial management?