Acute low back pain: Considerations for imaging

CRP: C-reactive protein; CT: computed tomography; ESR: erythrocyte sedimentation rate; MM: multiple myeloma; MRI: magnetic resonance imaging.

* Patients with radiculopathy that is reliably localized to a single nerve root level or with stable symptoms due to known spinal stenosis do not need immediate imaging unless there is a risk of metastatic cancer or moderate to high risk of infection.

¶ Refer to related UpToDate content for further details regarding diagnosis of acute urinary retention.

Δ Lumbar spine MRI without contrast is usually appropriate. If there is concern for cancer or infection or if there is history of prior surgery at the site, MRI without and with contrast is recommended. CT with contrast is the alternative examination if MRI is contraindicated.