Back pain: Lancet review calls for clinical assessment over routine scans
A Lancet Rheumatology review suggests that clinical assessment and patient education are more effective for non-specific back pain than routine medical imaging. Specialists emphasize that most cases do not require invasive procedures and should instead focus on physical activity and symptom management.
Why it matters
This shift in medical practice could reduce unnecessary healthcare costs and prevent over-diagnosis of common musculoskeletal issues.
Back pain: Lancet review calls for clinical assessment over routine scans left Non-specific back pain can involve several factors, including muscle strain, weak core muscles, poor movement patterns, sedentary habits, stress and inadequate sleep. Image used for representation https://th-i.thgim.com/public/incoming/yilcfe/article71620795.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/Backpain1.jpg SHAJU JOHN For Sunday Magazine health page,Sub:back pain. Shaju John Guidelines favour patient education, physical activity and exercise, with imaging reserved for cases where serious disease is suspected, say doctors Bengaluru A recent review of international clinical practice guidelines published in The Lancet Rheumatology highlights a shift in the management of non-specific low back pain towards clinical assessment, patient education, physical activity, and exercise, while discouraging routine imaging when there is no suspicion of serious disease. Examining guidelines issued between 1994 and 2026, the review underscores the importance of assessing symptoms and identifying warning signs before deciding on investigations or treatment.
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