Patient case: Low Back Pain
A 35-year-old man presents with a 3-month history of intermittent low back pain. The pain began after lifting a heavy object at work and has worsened over time, radiating down to his left buttock and thigh. He describes the pain as a dull ache that becomes sharp with bending or prolonged sitting. The pain improves with walking or changing positions. He denies any numbness, tingling, or weakness in his legs.
On physical examination, there is tenderness over the lower lumbar region, and the patient has limited forward flexion due to pain. Straight leg raise test is negative, and neurological examination shows no deficits. The patient’s occupation involves frequent lifting, which likely contributed to the injury.
He is diagnosed with mechanical low back pain. The treatment plan includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), rest, and physical therapy focusing on core strengthening and proper lifting techniques. He is also advised to avoid heavy lifting until the pain resolves.
a). A fall while exercising
b). Lifting a heavy object at work
c). Prolonged standing
d). A sudden twist during a sports game
a). Right shoulder and arm
b). Left buttock and thigh
c). Both legs
d). Neck and upper back
a). Schober’s test
b). Thompson test
c). Straight leg raise test
d). McMurray’s test
a). Corticosteroid injections
b). Physical therapy and NSAIDs
c). Surgery
d). Complete bed rest for 2 weeks
