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Back Pain Archive

Howard E. LeWine, MD

Early scans for back pain add cost but offer little benefit for seniors

Published March 20, 2015

Older adults with new back pain usually end up getting a CT scan or MRI. That’s often a waste of time and money and has little or no effect on the outcome, according to a new study from the University of Washington. The results of the study contradict current guidelines from the American College of Radiology. The guidelines say that it’s “appropriate” for doctors to order early MRIs for people ages 70 and older with new-onset back pain, and many doctors do just that. The study, which followed more than 5,200 men and women over the age of 65 who saw a primary care physician for a new bout of back pain, found that people who got early back scans did no better than those who didn’t have scans. The scans added about $1,400 per person to the overall cost of back pain care — with no measurable benefit.

Pain

Sore back? Try a massage

Updated February 14, 2015

Massage can be a helpful add-on to conventional medical care for back pain.

Images: Thinkstock

It can reduce discomfort and get you back on your feet faster.

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