Low Back Pain and MRIs

I Have Low Back Pain! Should I Get an MRI?

When it comes to low back pain, getting imaging done rarely changes the outcome or provides additional benefits. A study conducted by MC Jenson et al. took MRIs of multiple individuals with both pain and no pain. The results showed that almost everyone had some form of bulging discs, herniated discs, degenerative disc disease, or other findings. This demonstrates that just because something shows up on your MRI, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the cause of your back pain.

In physical therapy, knowing the exact pathoanatomical injury isn’t necessary to address pain. Instead, we focus on clinical findings and other functional impairments that are relevant to treating the back pain.

When Should I Get Imaging for My Low Back Pain?

Imaging is generally recommended if you have severe neurological symptoms or “red flags.” These include the inability to control your bowel or bladder, foot drop, significant changes in how you walk, or numbness and tingling in the groin area. However, symptoms like numbness and tingling in the legs, changes in reflexes, or weakness in certain muscle groups are common with some low back injuries and are not necessarily signs of a serious neurological issue.

Important Pro Tip

If you’ve had imaging for your low back pain and the results show findings that make you think your condition is chronic or unlikely to change, don’t be discouraged! Just because your MRI shows certain findings, it doesn’t mean that they are the cause of your pain, and it doesn’t mean you have to live with this pain forever. There are many treatments available, and physical therapy can be incredibly effective in managing your pain.

If you could benefit from learning more about MRIs or are seeking low back rehabilitation, schedule an appointment here, call us at 312-643-1555, or email [email protected]. 

Dynamic Physical Therapy • https://dynamic-pt.com • 220 W Huron St Suite 2004, Chicago, IL 60654