Persistent Back Pain Consultation
Intermediate English listening exercise · Doctor Visits
Transcript
[Doctor] Hello, Mark. I see you're here about back pain. Tell me what's going on. [Patient] I've had lower back pain for about six weeks now. It started after I helped a friend move flats. [Doctor] Can you describe the pain? Is it sharp or dull? Does it radiate anywhere? [Patient] It's mostly a dull ache, but sometimes it's sharp when I bend over. It doesn't go down my legs. [Doctor] That's good — no leg pain means the nerves are likely not compressed. On a scale of one to ten, how would you rate the pain? [Patient] Usually about a five, but it can spike to a seven or eight after sitting for long periods. [Doctor] Let me do a physical examination. I'll check your range of motion and do some neurological tests... Your reflexes are normal and you have full strength in both legs. That's reassuring. [Patient] So what do you think it is? [Doctor] Based on the exam, it appears to be a muscular strain, possibly affecting the lumbar region. Most back pain resolves within six to twelve weeks with proper care. [Patient] What should I do? [Doctor] I'm going to prescribe a muscle relaxant for the acute episodes and recommend physical therapy twice a week. Keep active — gentle walking and stretching are better than bed rest. [Patient] Should I get an MRI? [Doctor] Not at this point. An MRI is typically recommended if the pain persists beyond twelve weeks, if you have neurological symptoms, or if the pain significantly worsens. Let's try conservative treatment first.
Comprehension questions
- Why is the lack of leg pain a good sign?
- When does the doctor recommend an MRI?
- How long has Mark been experiencing lower back pain?
- What type of pain does Mark primarily describe?
- What treatment does the doctor prescribe for Mark?