A 40-year-old man presents with low back pain for 4 weeks after lifting at work. It is non-radiating, with no neurological deficits, fever, weight los...

Question

A 40-year-old man presents with low back pain for 4 weeks after lifting at work. It is non-radiating, with no neurological deficits, fever, weight loss, or history of cancer. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the best imaging strategy?

Accepted Answer

No imaging at this time; provide conservative management and review if red flags develop

Answer

Immediate lumbar spine MRI to rule out disc herniation

Answer

Lumbar spine CT scan to exclude fracture

Answer

Immediate lumbar spine X-ray to reassure the patient

Answer

Whole-body bone scan to exclude metastases

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

A 40-year-old man presents with low back pain for 4 weeks after lifting at work. It is non-radiating, with no neurological deficits, fever, weight loss, or history of cancer. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the best imaging strategy?