How are Back & Neck Problems Evaluated?

Your doctor will use a number of approaches to evaluate and diagnose neck problems such as a herniated disc. These include:

A Detailed History – Your role in providing a detailed history is very important. Your doctor will need to know where and when it hurts, if there was a recent injury or fall, and a description of the pain. Are there positions or activities that make it feel worse? What makes it feel better? All of these details can help your doctor pinpoint the problem.

A Physical Exam – Once your history is given, a thorough exam by a spine expert is another important step in getting a good diagnosis.

Diagnostic Imaging – X rays can show the structure and alignment of the vertebrae, as well as the presence and size of bone spurs or other bony abnormalities.

CT or “computerized tomography” – This is a special kind of X ray machine. Rather than a single X ray, a CT scanner sends out a number of beams at different angles. These images are then read by a computer, producing detailed cross-sections or “slices” that can show the shape and size of the spinal canal and the surrounding structures.

MRI or “magnetic resonance imaging” – MRI is probably the most utilized study for disc evaluation. MRI uses a powerful magnet and radio waves. The images produced are very helpful in visualizing the soft tissues such as the spinal cord, as well as the discs and nerve roots.

Bone Scans – These are useful in revealing certain abnormalities such as infections, fractures, tumors and arthritis. Because bone scans are unable to differentiate between these problems, they are usually performed in conjunction with other diagnostic tests.