Geographic Variation in Early MRI for Acute Work-Related Low Back Pain and Associated Factors.

Study Design: Retrospective cohort study using medical claims data.

Objective: To document the extent of geographic variation in utilization of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for working-age patients early in the course of acute, disabling low back pain (LBP); to identify potential factors associated with the most extreme variations.

Summary Of Background Data: Although guidelines discourage MRI in acute uncomplicated LBP, this practice is highly prevalent.