Rapid MRI vs Radiographs for Patients With Low Back Pain – (06-17-03)



Rapid MRI vs Radiographs for Patients With Low Back Pain

This study found no additional benefit to ordering MRI over standard Xrays. Interestingly, this study found that patients who had MRIs were more likely to undergo surgery. Basically, this supports what I always tell patients–just because something shows up on an MRI (i.e. disc herniation) does not mean that it is causing your current symptoms. Nothing replaces a good exam. An MRI should NOT be used to make a diagnosis, but rather to confirm what you already know or clarify a difficult case presentation.

JAMA — Abstracts: Jarvik et al. 289 (21): 2810

Read entire article here

James Bogash

For more than a decade, Dr. Bogash has stayed current with the medical literature as it relates to physiology, disease prevention and disease management. He uses his knowledge to educate patients, the community and cyberspace on the best way to avoid and / or manage chronic diseases using lifestyle and targeted supplementation.







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Category: Low Back Pain
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