In my last post I discussed why imaging in the form of x-rays and MRI scans is not necessary for the vast majority of patients with acute low back pain. I should add that when MRI scanning is necessary the correct person to order that test is not the ER physician or your PCP, but rather a spine specialist who is capable of both interpreting and acting on the result. Continue reading
low back pain
I’m skeptical about … low back pain (part 1).
As a long-time competitive inline speed skater, I can tell you that there are only 2 types of skaters: those who have had low back pain and those who will. Pretty much the same applies to the population at large with low back pain affecting more than 80% of adults at one time or another. It is the number one reason why patients are referred for physical therapy, the second leading cause of missed days at work (after colds), and the 5th most common reason why people visit a doctor. Continue reading