When to Get an X-Ray for Low Back Pain
Low back pain is experienced by about 80 percent of the world’s population at some point in time in their life. The intensity of low back pain is widely variable with each individual causing individuals to seek relief differently. Many cases of low back pain can be managed with conservative measures and imaging does not have to be performed, however, there are instances where further investigation is warranted. According to research from the American College of Radiology (ACR), one such scenario is when symptoms persist or worsen despite initial treatment efforts.
The American College of Radiology suggests that an X-ray would be warranted in times of red flags associated with low back pain. These red flags can include trauma, unexplained weight loss, fever, history of cancer, saddle paresthesia, and urinary changes to name a few. However, in regards to neurological symptoms, numbness and/or weakness shouldn’t be an immediate consideration for an X-ray. Instead, an X-ray would be warranted when those symptoms are severe or prolonged. Pain is synonymous with the neurological symptoms in the sense that even pain down the leg shouldn’t be an immediate consideration for an X-ray, only if severe or prolonged!
It's important to note that while X-rays can provide valuable information about the bones and joints of your spine, they are commonly not necessary for diagnosing the cause of your low back pain. In many cases, a thorough physical exam coupled with a detailed medical history can provide sufficient information to guide treatment decisions. However, when clinical suspicion is high for certain conditions or when symptoms are not improving as expected, X-rays may play a crucial role in determining the appropriate course of action.
Ultimately, the American College of Radiology creates this criteria to assist not only the doctor in their decision, but also, to prevent a patient from getting unnecessary imaging. Unnecessary imaging is a crucial consideration as it can prevent unnecessary spending, unnecessary radiation, and prevent inaccurate diagnoses. The decision to get an X-ray should come from collaboration between healthcare providers and their patients. If you are ever having difficulty making this decision or need to try conservative care first to prevent getting unnecessary imaging, we would gladly help you get comfortable with a decision or have you feeling comfortable physically again at Focus On Health Chiropractic!
American College of Radiology. (n.d.). ACR Appropriateness Criteria® Low Back Pain. Retrieved from https://acsearch.acr.org/docs/69495/Narrative/