The use of lumbar spine imaging to determine fitness for work in asymptomatic workers who perform manual lifting.

In occupational medicine, evidence-based practices are essential for assessing the accuracy, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness of any technologies used in health programs. This opinion article reflects on the use of imaging tests to screen for workers at risk of low back pain disability and to recommend avoiding tasks that involve high biomechanical risk. The limitations of such testing are discussed through basic epidemiological concepts and evidence collected from systematic reviews.