A 30-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box. He has no neurological deficits, no systemic symptoms and no history of...

Question

A 30-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box. He has no neurological deficits, no systemic symptoms and no history of trauma, cancer or intravenous drug use. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate imaging strategy?

Accepted Answer

Defer imaging and manage conservatively

Answer

Order lumbar spine MRI immediately

Answer

Order lumbar spine CT immediately

Answer

Order lumbar spine radiographs immediately

Answer

Order bone scan to exclude malignancy

ca-mccqe1 MCQ (SBA): Mechanical low back pain

A 30-year-old man presents with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box. He has no neurological deficits, no systemic symptoms and no history of trauma, cancer or intravenous drug use. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate imaging strategy?