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.