What will your doctor do to diagnose your back pain?

One of the main reasons to consult a physician about your back pain is
because it can be caused by things other than the run-of-the-mill suspects
like injury, strain, exercise, or excess weight. As an example, your kidneys
lie against your back outside of the abdominal cavity. Kidney stones and
kidney infections can cause pain in the back. Assuming your lingering back
pain can be stretched out or cured with ice packs could be dangerous.
Rather than make assumptions, your doctor will begin by asking you a series
of questions meant to zero in on a few clues about the origin of your back
pain:
• How long have you had your pain?
• What does it feel like? Is it sharp or dull?
• When does the pain occur? Sitting? Standing? Lying down?
• How have you managed the pain so far?
Now, the detective work begins. Your doctor will perform various tests,
based on your answers, to diagnose the cause of your back pain. This series
of tests is the best way to come up with a helpful treatment.
Visual – The doctor will have you stand and look at your back. He can
evaluate your posture, feel for any bulges in the back or areas that are
sensitive to pain. This can be done during your initial visit.
X-rays – This is the only way to see your bones. The doctor can check the
bones of the vertebrae and the surrounding supporting tissue. If there are
any misalignments or fractures, you will have a better idea of what you will
be dealing with in the way of treatments.
MRI – This is the magnetic tube which allows the doctor and technicians to
see the soft tissue. If there is a herniated disc or a degenerative disc
problem, the doctor will know.
Myelograms – This involves the nerves. When a disc is herniated, nerves
can become pinched. By injecting dye into the spinal cord, doctors can see if
and where nerve damage is occurring.
Self-diagnosing back pain is a risky business. A backache now and again
when you've been out mowing the lawn or painting the house is
understandable. However, intense or long-term back pain is nothing to play
around with. It could be a sign that something is wrong with either the
structure of your back or your general health. A visit with your doctor will
either reassure you that rest and exercise will help your back or you'll find
proper treatment to resolve a health issue. Seeing your doctor is the only
way to put your mind at ease and get on with your day – without that old
pain in the back!
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