Making the Diagnosis
A search for the cause of back pain will involve a physical examination with a lot of prodding and feeling of the bones and muscles by the doctor. Reflex tests are also necessary. If there's no obvious cause, an X-ray may be taken or, in long-standing or more serious cases, a computer assisted tomography (CAT) scan or MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan may be the next step. In a few cases, a sample of cerebrospinal fluid may be taken for analysis.
There are many factors that can cause back pain. It might take some time before you understand what is causing the problem. It's important to be properly examined by a doctor.