Diagnosis
A thorough medical history and physical exam can usually identify any dangerous conditions or family history that may be associated with the pain. The patient describes:
the onset, site, and severity of the pain
duration of symptoms and any limitations in movement
history of previous episodes or any health conditions that might be related to the pain
The physician will examine the back and conduct neurologic tests to determine the cause of pain and appropriate treatment. Blood tests may also be ordered. Imaging tests may be necessary to diagnose tumors or other possible sources of the pain.
Diagnostic Methods
Diagnostic methods that may be used include:
X-rays (imaging methods that help diagnose the cause and site of back pain)
Discography (involves the injection of a contrast dye into a spinal disc thought to be causing low back pain)
Computerized Tomography (CT) (a quick and painless process used when disc rupture, spinal stenosis, or damage to vertebrae is suspected as a cause of low back pain)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) (used to evaluate the lumbar region)
Electrodiagnostic Procedures (including electromyography (EMG), nerve conduction studies and evoked potential (EP) studies)
Bone Scans (used to diagnose and monitor infections, fractures, or disorders in the bone)
Thermography (uses infrared sensing devices to measure small temperature changes)
Ultrasound Imaging (uses high-frequency sound waves to obtain images inside the body)
