How Are Back Pain and Sciatica Pain Diagnosed?
Diagnosing back Pain and sciatica Pain typically involves a comprehensive approach that includes a detailed medical history, physical examination, and imaging studies. The medical history will focus on the onset, duration, intensity, and location of the pain, as well as any associated symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness. The physician will also inquire about any recent injuries, activities that exacerbate or alleviate the pain, and any previous episodes of back pain or sciatica.
During the physical examination, the doctor will assess the range of motion, muscle strength, reflexes and sensory responses. Specific tests, such as the straight leg raise test, may be performed to reproduce sciatica symptoms and identify nerve involvement. Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans are often used to provide detailed views of the spine's structures, revealing conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or other abnormalities. In some cases, electromyography (EMG) may be used to evaluate the electrical activity of muscles and nerves, helping to pinpoint the location and extent of nerve damage.
