A 48-year-old woman presents with 3 weeks of low back pain after lifting at work. Pain is mechanical, improves with rest, and there is no radiation, w...

Question

A 48-year-old woman presents with 3 weeks of low back pain after lifting at work. Pain is mechanical, improves with rest, and there is no radiation, weakness, numbness, fever, weight loss, or history of cancer. Examination is normal. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate imaging strategy?

Accepted Answer

No imaging at this time; treat conservatively

Answer

Immediate lumbar spine MRI

Answer

Lumbar spine X-ray today

Answer

CT scan of the lumbosacral spine

Answer

Bone scan

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Non-specific low back pain