Diagnostic Tests
Diagnostic tests are used to determine what is causing back pain or where in the back the cause is located. Physical examinations, imaging tests, or injections into the spine can all be used to diagnose the source of back pain.
Computed tomography scan with myelogram includes injecting a radiopaque dye around the spinal nerve roots allowoing for excellent spatial resolution.
Electromyography (EMG)
Electromyography measures the electrical activity produced in a muscle in response to stimulation by a nerve.
Obtaining an accurate diagnosis for neck or back pain allows the treatment to be specifically tailored to the underlying condition.
In the spine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is typically used to investigate musculoskeletal problems with or without neurologic deficits.
Lumbar Discogram Procedure
A lumbar discogram procedure is an injection technique used to evaluate patients with back pain who have not responded to extensive conservative care.
Also called a discogram, lumbar discography is an injection technique used to evaluate patients with back pain who have not responded to extensive conservative care regimens.