A 33-year-old construction worker comes for evaluation and treatment of acute onset of low back pain. He notes that the pain is an aching located in the lumbosacral area. It has been present intermittently for several years; there is no known trauma or injury. He points to the left lower back. The pain does not radiate and there is no numbness or tingling in the legs or incontinence. He was moving furniture for a friend over the weekend. On physical examination, you note muscle spasm, with normal deep tendon reflexes and muscle strength. What is the most likely cause of this patient's low back pain?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The case is an example of mechanical low back pain; in a large percentage of cases there is no known underlying cause. The pain is often precipitated by moving, lifting, or twisting motions and relieved by rest.

A 33-Year-Old Construction Worker Comes for Evaluation and Treatment of Acute