Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Acute Low Back Pain

This is a behavioral observational study aimed at understanding the limit of tolerance (in days) of ideally performing a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) by people with acute low back pain (LBP) and by general practitioners (GP).

Literature pointed out that LBP is a common occurrence in people, with high rates of self-resolution in the absence of red flags (i.e. possible indicators of serious spinal pathology).

In Italy there is an over-prescription of MRI despite international guidelines go the opposite way.

The study consists of a short self-administered questionnaire which will be given to people and GP to complete. In more details, the survey is made of 3 questions collecting information on the limit of tolerance (in days) before requesting (people) and prescribing (GP) a MRI for the lumbar tract of the spinal column.

Further, participants will have to complete a self-administered pain intensity numerical rating scale, along with catastrophizing and anxiety self-administered questionnaires.

Descriptive statistics will be presented by taking into account the socio-demographic characteristics of the sample being investigated. Statistical correlations between participants' answers and the scores from the questionnaires will be also evaluated.

This study investigates the relationships among acute low back pain, the intention of persons/GP to request/prescribe a MRI despite the absence of red flags, mood disorders and maladaptive thoughts.

Inclusion criteria

• Having acute low back pain (i.e., a pain lasting no more than 6 weeks)
• Adult age
• Ability to understand the Italian language

Exclusion criteria

• Mental deficits
• Refuse to adhere to the study.