Back Pain Exam

By Ehren Allen, Certified Manual Therapist/Physical Therapist

Back Pain Exam

Back pain is the 2nd most common reason a person seeks medical care. Upper respiratory infection is the most common. It’s estimated that more than $80 billion is spent each year because of back pain, and the cost is growing. In fact, eight out of 10 people will suffer from some form of back pain at some time during their lives. Although back pain is more likely to
occur between the ages of 30 and 50, it can happen to you at any age.

Medical History

If you have back pain, you may need to have a back pain exam. The first step in your exam is to provide your doctor with a complete history of your back problem.

Next, your doctor will conduct a thorough physical examination. X-rays of your back may be ordered to evaluate the bony anatomy. They are usually the first step taken by your doctor during testing of any back problem, because they can help decide which other tests, if any, may be required.

Special Testing

Other testing your doctor can use during your exam may include a MRI or “Magnetic Resonance Imaging,” a CAT or “Computer Assisted Tomography” Scan, a Myleogram, a Discogram, and an Electromyogram. Since there are so many possible causes of back pain, blood tests are taken to look for infection or arthritis. Your doctor may also search for other sources of back pain located away from your spine, such as an aortic aneurysm, kidney problems, and stomach ulcers.

 

JOI and JOI Rehab

JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.

You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.

To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

By: Ehren Allen, Certified Manual Therapist/Physical Therapist