To help get your physical history, your doctor may have you answer questions on a form about your pain and symptoms. The information you give can help your doctor determine your diagnosis. Examples of the questions that may be asked on the form include:

• When did your pain first begin?
• Was there an injury that may have caused your pain?
• Are you aware of work postures or other factors that may be causing your pain
• Do you have a family history of similar problems?

After reading through your written history, your physician will ask more questions that relate to the information you've given. Some typical questions include:

• When did the pain begin?
• Was there an injury that could be related to the pain?
• Where do you feel the pain? What is the intensity?
• Does the pain radiate to other parts of the body?
• What factors make the pain feel better or worse?
• Have you had problems with your bladder or bowels?
• Is there a history of osteoporosis in your family?