Which examination finding is consistent with a mechanical cause of low back pain?

Intermittent pain without trauma often indicates a mechanical cause of low back pain because it suggests a specific pattern related to movement and activity levels rather than a more serious underlying condition. This type of pain can arise from strain, overuse, or degeneration of the musculoskeletal structures in the spine, such as the intervertebral discs, ligaments, or muscles.

In a mechanical context, the absence of a traumatic event points toward repetitive stress or minor injuries that can build up over time, indicative of mechanical issues rather than systemic problems or significant pathology.

Other types of findings, such as radiculopathy or signs of neurological impairment, typically suggest nerve irritation or damage rather than a purely mechanical issue. The positive straight leg raise is often associated with lumbar radiculopathy or nerve root irritation, while pain on spinal flexion might indicate more than just mechanical dysfunction, such as inflammation or an underlying condition affecting spinal integrity.