Imaging of Acute Low Back Pain

Abstract

Acute low back pain, defined as less than 6 weeks in duration, does not require imaging in the absence of "red flags" that may indicate a cause, such as fracture, infection, or malignancy. When imaging is indicated, it is important to rule out a host of abnormalities that may be responsible for the pain and any associated symptoms. A common mnemonic VINDICATE can help ensure a thorough consideration of the possible causes.

Keywords: Acute disc herniation; Acute low back pain; Discitis osteomyelitis; Epidural hematoma; Pathologic fracture; Spinal cord infarct; Spinal metastases.