The simplest and most effective method for diagnosing spine and lower back pain diseases is an x-ray. As far as we know, the human spine has 31-33 vertebrae interconnected by cartilage plates (discs). It has several anatomical curves in two types (lordosis and kyphosis). Lordosis refers to parts with a curved region forward (cervical and lumbar), and kyphosis is parting with a curve to the back of the back (thoracic and sacral).

Thanks to radiography, it is possible to detect back pain at any level, whether in the back muscles or the coccygeal region.

What does a lower back x-ray show?

The first imaging test ordered for patients suffering from lower back pain is usually an X-ray. In addition to diagnosing fractures and tumors, they help determine degenerative changes in the spine. X-rays can provide information about the alignment of the vertebrae, the presence of arthritis, and the condition of the spinal discs.

X-ray of the spine can detect several pathologies:

• neoplasms and oncological changes in the skeletal system;
• accumulation of fluid in the joint cavity;
• upper back pain;
• the curvature of a different nature and degree;
• changes in the cartilage that connects the vertebrae (changes in the intervertebral discs);
• changes in the vertebrae themselves, as well as their location to each other.

To reduce the radiation load on the body, x-rays are taken in one specific area. Patients with congenital anomalies of the spine (mainly lumbar structural disorders) should undergo such a medical examination periodically. X-rays are prescribed based on the anamnesis collected from the patient during the investigation.

Examples of patient complaints that are reasons for x-rays:

• headache;
• weakness in the limbs (arms and legs);
• pain in the chest, lower back, neck, etc.;
• numbness of hands and feet;
• dizziness when moving and bending in different directions.

X-ray reveals vertebrae compression, dislocations (subluxations), neoplasms and other cancers, hernias, tuberculosis, and spine osteoarthritis.

According to the frequency of prescribing an x-ray examination, it is named no more than 1 time per month. But the frequency can be increased due to complaints of pain or damage.

Who performs an x-ray of the spine?

Radiology is carried out by a radiologist engaged in the creation, as well as the study and description of the resulting image for further transfer to a neuropathologist or a patient.

Currently, X-rays are carried out using digital equipment, which has the least radiation effect on the body, but you should never forget that only a doctor can prescribe such a research method.

How is low back pain diagnosed?

Millions of people worldwide are afflicted by the common condition of low back pain. Numerous things can contribute to it, including strained muscles, herniated discs, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and many others. The best treatment strategy must be chosen after identifying the underlying cause of low back pain.

Millions of people worldwide suffer from the common condition known as low back pain. Straining muscles, herniated discs, osteoarthritis, spinal stenosis, and many other diseases are just a few causes. To choose the most effective course of treatment, it is necessary to identify the underlying cause of low back pain.

Medical history and physical exam:

A complete medical history and physical examination are the first steps in diagnosing low back pain. The patient’s symptoms will be discussed with the doctor, including any pain’s nature, location, and intensity. The doctor will check the spine for any abnormalities throughout the physical examination, including any indications of inflammation or muscle spasms.

Imaging tests:

Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans may be requested if the doctor suspects that a structural issue is bringing on the low back pain in the spine. These examinations can aid in determining whether herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other abnormalities in the spine are bringing on the pain.

Electromyography (EMG):

Finding the nerve-related causes of low back pain can be done using an EMG test. The doctor places a tiny needle electrode into the muscle during this test to measure the electrical activity in the muscles. Depending on the findings, it may be possible to determine whether nerve damage, a pinched nerve, or another condition is to blame for the pain.

Blood tests:

Low back pain occasionally results from an underlying medical condition like an infection, inflammation, or cancer. These conditions can be identified and treated with the help of blood tests.

Diagnostic injections:

The doctor may occasionally administer diagnostic injections to determine the cause of low back pain. For instance, a nerve block injection can assist in identifying the exact nerve(s) responsible for the pain.

The doctor can create a treatment strategy that targets the cause of the pain once the underlying cause of low back pain has been determined. Treatment options may include surgery, physical therapy, medication, or injections depending on the type and extent of the pain.

What can an MRI of the back show?

The patient has back pain, and the doctor asks him to do an MRI of the back. What can a neurologist see in the pictures? In an MRI diagnosis of the spinal column, the doctor can first detect degenerative changes in the following:

• intervertebral discs,
• herniated discs,
• protrusions,
• osteochondrosis,
• stenosis.

Using MRI, you can see various volumetric formations (cysts, tumors) both in the spinal canal and surrounding structures and vertebral bodies.

Various inflammatory processes such as spondylitis, spondyloarthritis, and epidurals are visible on tomography images. Still, changes in the arcuate joints and adaptations in the ligamentous apparatus are also ideally visualized with magnetic resonance imaging of the back.

MRI A valuable diagnostic tool

An MRI of the back is a valuable diagnostic tool that can provide detailed information about the internal structures of the spine. It can help doctors diagnose and treat spinal conditions, including herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. By providing a detailed picture of the spine, an MRI can help doctors develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to the patient’s individual needs.

 Lower Back Pain Treatments

Treatment for lower back pain often depends on the lower back pain causes. In some cases, rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication may be enough to relieve symptoms. Physical therapy, chiropractic treatment, or back pain medicine may be necessary for more severe cases. Surgery is generally reserved for patients where conservative treatments have failed or when an apparent structural abnormality is causing the pain.

Prevention of lower back pain

Preventing lower back pain involves maintaining good posture, staying active, and using proper lifting techniques. Exercise, particularly core strengthening exercises, can help prevent muscle strains and sprains. Maintaining a healthy weight can also reduce the pressure on the lower back.

Conclusion

Lower back pain is a common condition that can be challenging to diagnose and treat. Imaging tests such as X-rays and MRIs can provide valuable information about the cause of the pain, allowing doctors to provide the most effective treatment. While lower back pain can be frustrating, many people find relief with proper treatment and preventative measures.

FAQs

What can an X-ray tell you about back pain?

Our X-rays tell us the cause of back pain, fractures, broken bones, arthritis, spondylolisthesis degeneration of the disks, tumors, and abnormalities in spinal curvatures, such as kyphosis.

Can an X-ray show inflammation in the back?

An MRI scan can determine whether inflammation is present, whereas X-rays cannot.

Can a back X-ray show nerve damage?

An X-ray cannot detect damaged nerves. For an in-depth examination of the spinal cord, MRI is recommended. They can be seen on CAT scans or MRIs.

What is the best scan to diagnose back pain?

A magnetic resonance imaging MRI scan gives you a detailed spine picture.

Can an x-ray showed a pinched nerve?

An X-ray doesn’t show us a pinched nerve. It lets us see clearly if you have a fracture, bone spur, or slipped disc because they reveal structural changes in the vertebrae.

How does nerve damage to the L5 cause symptoms?

A pinched L5 nerve root usually causes pain radiating from the foot.