Back problems come in many different types, including herniated or
slipped disc, spinal stenosis, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease,
and problems caused by weak muscles. This article will give you an
idea of what different types of tests are available and how your
doctor will determine the source of your back pain. What you are about
to read is the culmination of information from many different places
and resources. Before your doctor can diagnose your condition and
create a treatment strategy, a complete profile and physical exam are
needed. This will give your physician a better idea of the reason for
your condition. Then appropriate diagnostic tests may be recommended.
Complete History Your doctor will want to get an account of your
condition. While you are waiting to see the physician you may start by
filling out a printed form. Your problem will be easier to diagnose,
the more information you share with your physician; so take time to
think about everything that relates to your pain and write it down. A
physical history can give your physician insight into your lifestyle,
when the pain began,physical factors that might be causing pain,
something that could have caused an injury, and any family history of
similar problems. After reading through your written history, your
physician will ask more questions that connect to the information you
have given. Your physician may want to know: If and where you are
feeing deadness or weakness. If the pain radiates to other parts of
your body. About any current weight loss, fever, or illness. Where you
are feeling pain and how intense it is. If you have had an injury. If
you've had troubles with your bladder or bowels. Whether you have had
this problem or something like it before. What factors make the pain
feel better or poorer. Physical Exam After taking your history, your
doctor will give you a physical exam. This allows the physician to to
determine the source of your trouble and try to rule out probable
causes of pain. The areas of your body that will be examined depend
upon where you are experiencing pain: lower back, legs, neck, arms,
etc. Motion of Your Spine - Is there pain when you bend, move or
twist? If so, where? Have you lost some flexibility? Reflex Changes -
Your tendon reflexes might be tested, such as below the kneecap and
behind the ankle in the Achilles tendon Motor Skills - You might be
asked to stagger on your heels or toes. Sensory Changes - Can you feel
certain sensations in detail areas of the feet or hands? Weakness
-Your muscles will be tested for power. You might be asked to try to
elevate or push your arm, hand, or leg when light resistance is put
against them. Pain - The physician may try to determine if you have
tenderness of certain areas. Special Signs - Your physician will also
confirm for any "red flags" that could designate something other than
spinal/vertebrae problems. Some indications of other problems include
tenderness in certain areas, a fever, an abnormal pulse, frequent
steroid use (leads to injury of bone mass), or fast weight loss.
Diagnostic Tests Diagnostic tests may be required in order to spot
your condition. Tests are chosen based on what your physician suspects
is causing the trouble. Bone Scan CT Scan Discogram EMG Facet Joint
Block Lab Test MRI Myelogram Spinal Tap SSEP X-ray Each one of these
tests will be covered in further depth in upcoming articles. We have
come to the end of my informational article. It's now your job to take
this information and do something with it. Good luck and good health!

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# posted by Network @ 3:30 PM