Back Pain Back Pain 3

Question 1

A 25-year-old man has low back pain and stiffness that is worst in the morning, lasts over an hour, and improves with exercise. Which condition should be suspected?

Accepted Answer

Ankylosing spondylitis

Answer

Inflammatory back pain in a young adult with prolonged morning stiffness that improves with activity is classic for ankylosing spondylitis.

Question 2

Which imaging study is the preferred choice for evaluating suspected lumbar disc herniation with neurological deficits?

Accepted Answer

MRI

Answer

MRI provides the best visualization of soft tissues, including discs and nerve roots.

Question 3

Neurogenic claudication from lumbar spinal stenosis typically improves with which position or activity?

Accepted Answer

Leaning forward or sitting

Answer

Flexion widens the spinal canal, relieving nerve compression in lumbar stenosis.

Question 4

An elderly woman with osteoporosis develops sudden mid-back pain after a minor fall. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Vertebral compression fracture

Answer

Osteoporotic bone can fracture under minimal trauma, most often causing vertebral compression fractures.

Question 5

Which muscle group, when weak, is most associated with increased risk of low back pain?

Accepted Answer

Core abdominal and trunk muscles

Answer

Weak core muscles reduce spinal stability and increase load on passive spinal structures.

Back Pain Practice Test

Back Pain Practice Test

Back Pain Back Pain 3