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

Physical findings in those who have musculoskeletal back pain include:

• Poor range of motion
• Pain with motion
• Stiffness
• Tenderness

Physical findings in those who have back pain due to nerve impingement or disk disease include:

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

Testing may be required to determine the underlying cause of back pain.

Tests that may be used to evaluate back pain include:

• Complete blood count
• Urinalysis
• Urine cultures
• Electrocardiogram
• Back x-rays:
• Normal spine
• Compression fractures
• CT scanning of the spine
• MRI scanning of the spine
• Bone scan
• Intravenous pyelogram