Diagnostic Tests for Bulging Disc Xray

When a slipped disc is suspected, physicians typically order imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. The diagnostic process begins with gathering a patient's medical history and symptoms, followed by a physical examination. Once the diagnosis is confirmed, treatment may start.

A herniated disc is often diagnosed after a patient complains of back, neck, or extremity pain. An MRI can provide detailed views of a bulging disc and nerves that may be compressed or impinged. X-rays are also ordered to examine the vertebrae surrounding a herniated disc. However, due to the composition of tissue in vertebral discs, X-rays have unfavorable results.

In cases where an MRI is difficult to access, a CT scan may be ordered, but its results are subpar compared to those provided by an MRI. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the spine is considered the most important diagnostic tool for evaluating the need for surgical intervention in patients with Lumber Disc Bulging Herniation (LDBH).

In cases where symptoms are severe and threaten to cause permanent damage to the spine or its surrounding structures, bulging disc surgery may be necessary before attempting conservative methods. Lumbar disc bulging or herniation is a major cause of spinal stenosis and related nerve compression, with severity being the primary determinant for spine surgery.

Physical manipulation tests performed during an examination can help doctors determine the condition or injury causing pain. A patient's medical history provides valuable information on when pain started, what triggered it, and its characteristics, such as burning sensations, radiation to arms, or changes in intensity with position.

During a physical examination, physicians test nerve function and muscle strength in affected areas of the arm or leg. If deemed necessary, additional diagnostic tests are ordered. A patient's medical history is taken into account along with their physical examination when diagnosing a bulging disc. For a physician to diagnose a bulging disc, they must consider several aspects of pain.

Bulging disk xray