Tag Archives: back pain

What are “red flag” symptoms for those with low back pain?

What are “red flag” symptoms for those with low back pain?  When a patient presents to the office or hospital with low back pain, we are looking for the “red flag” (or VERY concerning symptoms) because it reveals that there … Continue reading

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The red flags of back pain

“Red flags” is a term that we physicians use that causes us to ACT.  Frequently back pain will resolve within 2 weeks with conservative management (like rest, ice, over-the-counter pain medicine).  These red flags will be followed up with thorough … Continue reading

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When should a patient with low back pain get an xray/MRI?

I love this question.  The research-tested answer is that routine imaging for patients with low pain is not warranted.  In fact, routine x-rays are associated with increased cost, poorer health in recipients, increased risk of surgery, and no reduction in patient anxiety. … Continue reading

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Should I insist my doctor order an MRI?

There are lots of magazine articles telling patients that if they want better care to speak up for themselves!  This brings up . . . are MRIs done too often?  Magnetic Resonance Imaging has become a routine test in the … Continue reading

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