Question

A 52-year-old man with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box presents to his family physician. He has no neurological deficits, no fever, no trauma, no history of cancer, and no weight loss. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate management regarding imaging?

Accepted Answer

Avoid imaging in the absence of red flags and provide conservative management

Answer

Order lumbar spine X-ray immediately

Answer

Order MRI to rule out disc herniation

Answer

Order CT scan to screen for spinal stenosis

Answer

Order a bone scan

Practice question

A 52-year-old man with acute low back pain after lifting a heavy box presents to his family physician. He has no neurological deficits, no fever, no trauma, no history of cancer, and no weight loss. According to Choosing Wisely Canada, what is the most appropriate management regarding imaging?