The most common and first among all the diagnostic tests for lower back pain is the x ray. The lower back is irradiated with these x rays and the images recorded on a sheet or digitally. The images show the structure and shape of the spinal bones. Studying them, the physician will be able to determine the cause of the pain and suggest necessary treatment. This is a painless and non invasive procedure that does not require repeated visits to the doctor. The whole tests take only about a few seconds. Though the test subjects the patient to a small amount of radiation, it is quite harmless and safe.

Magnetic resonance imaging gives details of the soft tissue structures that are present in the back. These include the inter-vertebral discs, spinal nerves and spinal cord. This is the most authoritative way to diagnose a lower back pain since it makes it possible to visualize the detailed internal structures. The test provides good contrast between the different soft tissues in the body. It is no wonder that it has been defined as its ‘gold standard’. Again, MRI is also a non invasive test that does not require repeat visits because a single complete scan can reveal all the necessary information. Since the method makes use of powerful magnets, a patient who has metal implants in the body cannot undergo the test. Otherwise, it is a very safe and low risk test and it takes just a few minutes to complete.

Computed axial tomography or computed tomography is a method of medical imaging that makes use of computer processing abilities. It generates a three dimensional image of the required anatomy. It does this by making use of a large number of two dimensional x ray images. These images are taken about a single axis of rotation. Thus, it permits the physician to view a high resolution 3D image of the bone anatomy in the spine. Since this test exposes the patient to high amounts of radiation, it should be done only if the physician deems it fit. But once done, it can distinguish between tissues that differ in physical densities to the extent of even 1 percent. Like the previous two tests, this is also non invasive and once the images are taken, there is no need for repeat visits.

This is a highly specific test that determines whether an abnormal or damaged disc in the spine is causing the lower back pain or not. This is a special test and not a routine one and is usually done before a surgery to determine exactly which disc levels will be treated. This is an invasive procedure that is performed in a sterile environment through fluoroscopy. After administering mild sedation, a dye is injected into the spinal disc and also throughout the lower back. The dye registers on the sensor and thus helps diagnosis of any problems in the lower back. The test may have to be repeated later to check progress. It can also cause mild pain while being administered.

The lower back pain causes rise in temperatures and this rise depends on the intensity and location of the pain. These temperature changes can be detected using thermography cameras and scanners. These cameras detect radiation in the infrared range of the electromagnetic spectrum. These are the radiations that cause temperature changes in any body. A clinical study showed that there is a significant relation between clinical sciatica and thermographic registration of even 1 degree. Thermography is a non invasive procedure, which is painless.

Using ultrasound to visualize the subcutaneous body structures like muscles, joints, tendons and internal organs is a time tested and well established method. Latest research has suggested that ultrasound can also be used therapeutically to heal lower back pain. But basically, the ultrasound makes use of high-frequency sound waves to obtain a ‘picture’ or ‘photograph’ of the affected region. The sensor is placed against the affected region and it sends waves and receives them in a non invasive manner. The doctor may recommend a repeat visit to determine the progress of the treatment.

There are different methods of using electricity to diagnose a lower back pain. They are all non invasive in nature and are painless. Electromyography is a method by which the electrical activity produced by the skeletal muscles is recorded and evaluated. The signals are then analyzed for abnormalities and the biomechanics involved. Similarly, nerve induction studies and evoked potential studies also help in the diagnosis. The former helps to determine whether the lower back pain has been caused due to malfunction in the nerves. It measures the nerve conduction velocity along with many other parameters. The evoked potential is the voltage recorded from the nervous system after subjecting it to a stimulus. This test helps to diagnose whether the lower back pain is being caused by problems in the central nervous system.