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Q. How will my doctor begin to examine my spine?
A. After taking your history, your physician will give you a physical
examination to rule out possible causes of pain and to determine what
is causing your problems. Here are some areas that are usually examined:
- Motion of spine: Is there pain when you twist, bend, or move? If
so, where? Have you lost any flexibility?
- Weakness: Your muscles will be tested for strength. You might be
asked to try to push or lift your arm, hand, or leg against resistance.
- Pain: Your doctor may try to determine if you have tenderness of
certain areas.
- Sensory changes: Can you feel different sensations in certain areas
of the feet or hands.
- Reflex changes: Your tendon reflexes may be tested below the knee
or behind the ankle.
- Motor skills: You might be asked to walk on your toes or heels.
- Special signs: The physician will also check for any "red flags"
that could indicate there are problems other than in the spine or
vertebrae. Some signs of other problems include tenderness in certain
areas, a fever, an abnormal pulse, chronic steroid use (leads to loss
of bone mass), or rapid weight loss.
After the physical examination, your doctor may choose from various medical
tests including x-rays, MRI scans, CT scans, and lab tests to help make
the diagnosis.
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