What issues you should cover

Symptoms—Discuss the likely causes. Show him a diagram or model of the lumbar spine indicating the vertebrae, discs, and nerve roots. Explain that his leg pain is due to irritation of the nerve roots and that effective treatment should alleviate both his back pain and his leg pain.

History—When taking a history, be alert to:

• Any recent trauma, which may raise the possibility of a fracture

• “Red flag” signs (see box), which may indicate serious spinal pathology

• “Yellow flag” signs, which are factors recognised as having an influence on long term disease outcomes and which may cloud assessment and treatment.

Examination—Look for reduced range of spinal movement, reduced straight leg raise, positive neural stretch tests, neurological deficit (sensory, motor, reflex impairment), distribution of paraesthesias or sensory loss, reduced ankle and great toe dorsiflexion, knee and ankle reflexes.

Risk factors—Overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, heavy physical work, repetitive lifting, twisting, and prolonged standing in an awkward posture can all cause or exacerbate back problems.

What you should do

• If red flag signs are present refer him to a specialist for further evaluation and advise him to rest and to avoid physical activity until then. If no red flags are present, reassure him that there are no indications of serious spinal pathology and that a full recovery from this acute episode is likely. Nerve root pain is not itself a cause for alarm, and conservative treatment (which may take 6–8 weeks) should be effective.

• Managing symptoms with paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is usually effective. Check for contraindications and offer practical advice on using the drugs. Assess whether concomitant muscle relaxants and simple analgesia are needed.

• Consider whether adjunct management with manipulation of the lumbar spine or physiotherapy is indicated. Applying cold compresses or warm pads may relieve symptoms.

• Advise him to resume normal activities as soon as possible and to “let pain be his guide” as to the appropriate level of activity. Explain that this will help to relieve symptoms and reduce the risk of chronic disability.

• Encourage a prompt return to work—although manual handling may be an issue, and training in lifting may be advisable. Discuss whether you might need to liaise with his workplace.

• If yellow flags are present, assess him for signs of depression or unhappiness at work or home. This may promote “illness behaviour” and should be treated accordingly.

• Emphasise and encourage positive lifestyle changes such as maintenance of physical condition, avoidance of smoking, and weight control.

• Consider giving him a copy of The Back Book, an evidence based patient information booklet available from the Stationery Office.

• Ask him to return in six weeks if his symptoms haven't improved.