Question

A 42-year-old man presents with 2 weeks of low back pain after lifting boxes. There is no history of trauma, weight loss, fever, cancer, intravenous drug use or neurological symptoms. Examination is normal, with no focal neurology. He requests an MRI "to be safe." According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate response?

Accepted Answer

Reassure, provide conservative management and avoid imaging unless red flags develop

Answer

Order an MRI of the lumbar spine

Answer

Order a lumbar X-ray

Answer

Order CT scan of the lumbar spine

Answer

Refer urgently to neurosurgery

Practice question