The authors draw attention to the need of more detailed examination of patients with the diagnosis „backache“ before referring them to densitometric examination on account of suspected osteoporosis. In the majority of these patients osteoporosis is not found and there is a different cause of pain. As there are some 75% patients with this diagnosis, examination on a DEXA apparatus has long waiting lists.

        Key words: osteoporosis - backache - densitometric examination - DEXA apparatus