Testing for Lower Back Pain

Overview

If you're feeling a burning sensation, aches or recurrent pain in your lower back, you may be suffering from chronic back pain. This is a significant problem that will need to be addressed by a chiropractor or physician. Lower back pain testing involves a thorough physical examination, a review of your medical history and an evaluation of your symptoms.

Step 1

Make an appointment for a physical examination. Your physician will perform a comprehensive exam that includes a back examination.

Step 2

Complete each neurological test of the back examination. The examination involves tests to assess range of motion, painful arcs, gait, overall posture, mobility and palpation. These tests determine muscle strength, reflexes and muscle positioning. A straight leg raise test may also be performed as part of this exam.

Step 3

Discuss lifestyle habits with your physician. Lifestyle habits and what type of work you do on a daily basis could be causing some of the pain. Determine how many hours you are sitting in front of a computer, whether you spend most of your day carrying or lifting heavy objects, and what type of position you normally sleep in. These can all be factors in the health of your back.

Step 4

Get a blood test. A complete blood count will determine if you have any type of infection or low white cell blood count that may be making it difficult for your body to heal properly. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, infection or malignant blood cells may cause back pain.

Step 5

Undergo an MRI or CT scan. A physician may recommend such tests if the back pain can be traced to severe neurological deficits or infection. These scans are only used in rare cases.

Testing for Lower Back Pain by objectivemedicine.org