• Rationale and Comments

    Preplacement medical examinations are conducted to determine an individual’s ability to perform the job’s essential functions. Routine low back x-rays are costly, result in unnecessary radiation exposure, do not address the worker’s abilities and do not predict future injuries.

    Sponsoring Organizations

    • American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine

    Sources

    • American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine guidelines

    Disciplines

    • Preventive Medicine

    References

    • Talmage J, Belcourt R, Galper J, et al. Low back disorders. In: Hegmann K, ed. Occupational Medicine Practice Guidelines. 3rd ed. Elk Grove Village, Ill: American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine; 2011. p. 377.