How Does a Back Pain Doctor Diagnose Your Condition?
A back pain Doctor starts with a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose the source of your discomfort. This includes a detailed medical history where the doctor will ask about your symptoms, their onset, and any factors that may have contributed to the pain, such as previous injuries or lifestyle habits. The doctor will also perform a physical exam, assessing your posture, spine alignment, muscle strength, and range of motion. This exam helps identify areas of tenderness, weakness, or restricted movement, which can provide clues about the cause of the pain.
In many cases, the Back pain doctor may recommend additional diagnostic tests to get a clearer picture of your condition. X-rays, MRIs, or CT scans can reveal structural issues like disc herniation, fractures, or degenerative changes in the spine. If nerve involvement is suspected, electromyography (EMG) or nerve conduction studies may be performed to evaluate nerve function. These imaging and diagnostic tools help confirm the diagnosis and guide the treatment plan. By combining a thorough physical exam with advanced diagnostic tests, a back pain doctor can develop a targeted approach to effectively treat the condition.
