Welcome to the Quiz Review for Lesson Six.

In Lesson Six, you were asked three questions. Take a few moments to compare your answers to those given here.

1. How would you describe nonspecific low back pain?

Nonspecific pain is the most common type of back pain. It’s usually a signal that the back is not working right. The spine hasn’t been damaged. The pain is “mechanical,” and it usually goes away in a matter of a few days to several weeks. People do best when they use simple measures to take care of the pain and when they get moving sooner, rather than later.

2. Which spine structures can be a source of low back pain?

The spine has numerous structures that can be a source of low back pain. They include muscles, discs, bones, ligaments, joints, and nerves.

3. When should a person with back pain raise a “red flag” for prompt medical attention?

First, immediate attention is needed when symptoms of cauda equina syndrome occur. These symptoms can include back pain, pain going down the backs of one or both thighs, disturbed function of the bowels or bladder, and numbness in the genital area. Second, numbness or weakness in the lower limbs that is steadily getting worse requires prompt attention. And, third, people who feel back or leg pain that continues to get worse should report their symptoms to their healthcare provider.