The evaluation of a back injury begins with a medical history and physical exam.

Physical findings in those with a back injury may include:

• Poor range of motion in the spine
• Pain with motion
• Back stiffness
• Back tenderness

Physical findings in those with an injury to the nerves include:

• Muscle weakness
• Numbness in the groin, buttock or leg
• Poor reflexes

A mild back injury does not require testing; however, testing may be required to evaluate a severe back injury.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a severe back injury include:

• Back x-rays:
• Normal spine
• Compression fractures
• CT scanning of the spine
• MRI scanning of the spine
• Bone scan