Using image-guided techniques for chronic low back pain

Image-guided spine intervention is used primarily for its precise diagnostic capabilities. This article reviews basic principles of the more common image-guided diagnostic techniques specifically as they relate to patients with low back pain. It also includes discussion of advanced modes of therapy, including spinal cord stimulation and intrathecal therapy, providing primary care physicians with an understanding of the primary indications for these therapeutic modalities. Two illustrative case presentations have been added to "refresh" this article, which was originally published in a supplement to the September 2005 issue of the JAOA and to further enhance primary care physicians' understanding of spinal intervention.