Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Lumbar Spine in People Without Back Pain

Abstract

This case focuses on using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for lower back pain by asking the question: Should patients with low back pain requiring imaging be offered plain radiographs or MRI? Study results showed that there were no significant differences in back pain scores between the radiograph and MRI groups, although patients in the MRI group were more likely to be reassured by their imaging results. Also, there were no significant differences in total health care costs between the groups. Although spinal MRI studies (compared with plain radiographs) are reassuring for patients with low back pain, they do not lead to improved functional outcomes. In addition, spinal MRI detects anatomic abnormalities that would otherwise go undiscovered, possibly leading to spinal surgeries of uncertain value.