Lower back pain can be frustrating and affect daily life. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, seeing a doctor for a proper diagnosis is essential. Understanding what happens during a lower back pain assessment can help you feel prepared and confident about the process.
How Doctors Diagnose Lower Back Pain: Step-by-Step Examination
When you visit a specialist for lower back pain, the doctor will follow a structured approach to determine the cause of your pain. Here’s what to expect:
- Medical History Review: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, medical conditions, and any past injuries. Providing clear details about when the pain started and what makes it better or worse helps guide the diagnosis.
- Physical Examination: Your doctor will check your posture, range of motion, and spine alignment. They may also assess reflexes, muscle strength, and nerve function to determine if a nerve-related issue is causing your pain.
- Pain Assessment: You may be asked to rate your pain on a scale and describe whether it feels sharp, dull, burning, or radiating to other areas.
Lower Back Pain Diagnosis: Tests and Procedures Explained
If needed, your doctor may recommend diagnostic tests to get a clearer picture of what’s happening inside your spine.
- X-rays: These images help identify fractures, arthritis, or structural abnormalities in the spine.
- MRI Scans: If a nerve issue, herniated disc, or soft tissue problem is suspected, an MRI provides detailed images of the spine.
- CT Scans: Sometimes used when more detail is needed beyond an X-ray, especially for bone-related conditions.
- Nerve Studies (EMG/NCV): These tests measure nerve function and help diagnose conditions like sciatica or neuropathy.
When Is an MRI Necessary for Back Pain Diagnosis?
Not all cases require an MRI. However, if you have severe, persistent pain that doesn’t improve with treatment, or if you experience symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, your doctor may recommend an MRI to check for spinal disc problems, nerve compression, or other serious conditions.
When to See a Doctor and What to Expect
You should seek medical attention if:
- Pain lasts more than a few weeks
- Pain worsens over time or spreads to your legs
- You experience weakness, numbness, or loss of bladder/bowel control
- Home treatments like rest, stretching, or over-the-counter medications are not helping
Expert Advice from Dr. Ghalambor
“A proper diagnosis is the first step in effective pain management. Many patients wait too long before seeing a specialist, assuming their pain will go away. Early intervention can prevent worsening conditions and help patients regain mobility and comfort,” says Dr. Ghalambor.
Find the Right Back Pain Diagnosis and Treatment
If you need a spine assessment or a medical examination for back pain, consider booking an appointment with a specialist. NorTex Spine & Joint Institute offers expert care to help diagnose and manage lower back pain in Fort Worth, Allen, Coppell, and Garland, TX.
Schedule a consultation today to take the first step toward relief and recovery.
