Back Pain Essentials Of Back Pain 2

Question 1

A 45-year-old office worker reports low back pain that worsens with prolonged sitting and improves with walking. Which structure is most likely contributing to this pattern?

Accepted Answer

Intervertebral disc

Answer

Discogenic pain classically worsens with sitting and flexion because sitting increases intradiscal pressure.

Question 2

Which of the following is considered a 'red flag' symptom requiring urgent evaluation in a patient with back pain?

Accepted Answer

New urinary retention with saddle anesthesia

Answer

Urinary retention with saddle anesthesia suggests cauda equina syndrome, a surgical emergency.

Question 3

The straight leg raise test is primarily used to assess irritation of which nerve roots?

Accepted Answer

L4-S1

Answer

A positive straight leg raise between 30 and 70 degrees suggests L4-S1 nerve root irritation, commonly from disc herniation.

Question 4

Which imaging approach is recommended for a patient with acute nonspecific low back pain of one week's duration and no red flags?

Accepted Answer

No imaging

Answer

Guidelines recommend against imaging for acute nonspecific back pain without red flags because it does not improve outcomes.

Question 5

Which muscle group is a primary stabilizer of the lumbar spine and a common focus of core-strengthening rehabilitation?

Accepted Answer

Transversus abdominis

Answer

The transversus abdominis provides deep segmental stabilization of the lumbar spine and is targeted in core rehabilitation programs.

Back Pain Practice Test

Back Pain Practice Test

Back Pain Essentials Of Back Pain 2