Stress X-rays and the low back pain patient

This study was undertaken to determine if demographic, historical and/or clinical information would be helpful in predicting the presence of abnormal motion depicted on a stress radiograph (flexion, extension and lateral bending views). A total of 72 patients were divided into "normals" and "abnormals" based on the presence of abnormal sequential intersegmental vertebral motion as demonstrated on the stress radiographs. Demographically and historically, the "normal" and "abnormal" groups were essentially the same. Clinical data also failed to show any statistically significant differences between the two groups. Other radiographic findings (scoliosis, degenerative disease, and foraminal encroachment) did not show any significant differences. The value of demographic, historical and/or clinical information as input into the formulation of a protocol for stress radiography is questioned. Suggestions for further research are given.