La Revue du praticien
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Imaging strategy varies according to the background of acute or persistent low back pain. In case of acute low back pain with associated symptoms of a cauda equina syndrome or any atypical clinical signs PA and lateral radiographs of the lumbar spine are required. ⋯ Secondary, MRI may be performed in case of worsening and persistence of the clinical symptoms or if a specific low back pain is suspected. In case of chronic low back pain, with a severe socio-professional impact or a planed invasive treatment, plain films of the lumbar spine must be obtained, eventually with additional MRI examination.