Diagnostic Tests

Medical professionals may use different terms to refer to the same condition or symptom. Learn about the commonly confused diagnostic terms when discussing neck or back pain with a doctor.

Computed tomography scans include a series of x-rays that are rotated in different directions around a specific body part, producing a sequence of computer-generated images.

Computed tomography scan with myelogram includes injecting a radiopaque dye around the spinal nerve roots allowoing for excellent spatial resolution.

Electromyography measures the electrical activity produced in a muscle in response to stimulation by a nerve.

Obtaining an accurate diagnosis for neck or back pain allows the treatment to be specifically tailored to the underlying condition.

In the spine, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is typically used to investigate musculoskeletal problems with or without neurologic deficits.

Diagnostic studies are used to analyze areas of pathology in the body and their results are interpreted in conjunction with other diagnostic information.

A lumbar discogram procedure is an injection technique used to evaluate patients with back pain who have not responded to extensive conservative care.

Also called a discogram, lumbar discography is an injection technique used to evaluate patients with back pain who have not responded to extensive conservative care regimens.

In the spine, an MRI scan can reveal thorough details of the joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, spinal discs, spinal nerve roots, and the spinal cord.