Tests for pain

There are several different "warning signs" that you might feel to suggest something is wrong and that you need to consult a Dr.

Depending on where the pain is, there are certain tests that a Dr may wish to carry out to help understand where the pain is coming from and why

Our list helps you understand what each test is for and why, it covers everything from X-Rays to Facet Joint injections.

For instance your may have pain in your lower back and your health professional will evaluate your symptoms during your consultation and try to establish the exact location of the pain, this will include a medical history and physical examination.

If your Dr feels that your pain relates to nerve irritation of one or more spinal nerves and to the loss of strength, sensation, or reflexes that are normally associated with the nerve or nerves. If your medical history and physical examination suggests that you have already had the standard tests such as an x-ray or an MRI then he may suggest additional tests during your first medical visit.

Imaging tests may help confirm a diagnosis of a herniated disc or may be needed when nonsurgical treatment has not worked to relieve pain. If the results of an imaging test are not expected to change a treatment decision, the test is probably not needed.

Magnetic resonance image (MRI) may be done to confirm a diagnosis as well as the location and severity of a herniated discs/facet joint problems/nerve problems and much more. MRIs are also used for other for another serious conditions, such as an infection or tumor. An MRI provides detailed images of the soft tissues of the spine, such as the muscles, spinal nerves, tendons, ligaments, and discs.

An MRI is generally preferred over a CT scan for diagnosing a suspected herniated disc in the lower back (lumbar spine).

X-rays generally are not useful or needed for diagnosing a herniated disc. However, if your medical history and physical exam suggest a more serious underlying condition (such as a tumor, infection, fracture, or severe nerve damage), or if your leg pain and other symptoms do not get better after 2 to 4 weeks of nonsurgical treatment, your health professional may order X-rays. Other tests, such as blood tests, may be done to rule out other conditions.

Bone Scan - A test procedure that involves intravenously injecting a small quantity of a radiographic marker into the patient, and then running a scanner over the area of concern. The scanner detects the marker, which concentrates in any region exhibiting high bone turnover. A bone scan is utilized when there is suspicion of tumour, infection, or small fractures.

CAT Scan (computed axial tomography scan) also called a CT scan another painless imaging technique that utilizes a computer to produce detailed three-dimensional images of a body from a collation of cross-sectional X-rays taken along an axis. Of all the imaging techniques that are currently available, the CAT scan is best able to produce images of bone, blood, and soft tissues.

Myelogram - A test procedure that involves injecting a radiographic contrast media (dye) into the sac (dura) surrounding the spinal cord and nerves, and then taking X-rays of the spine. This allows the radiologist to specifically X-ray the nerve roots. In this way, any abnormalities within the spinal canal can potentially be identified to aid in the diagnosis of certain spinal problems, such as nerve compression or a disc rupture.

XRAYS - Painless, non-invasive imaging process that utilizes photographic film to absorb electromagnetic radiation — having an extremely short wavelength of less than 100 angstroms and the ability to penetrate solids of various thicknesses — transmitted through a material body. These images, also known as radiographs or roentgenograms, are used to diagnose and monitor the treatment of various disorders.

Please use the links listed to the right to read about any of the test we have listed there, if you feel I need to know about new tests/ways to diagnose health problems, please do let me know so that I may include it in my list.