The evaluation of a herniated disk begins with a history and physical examination.

Physical findings in someone with a herniated disk may include:

• Abnormal reflexes
• Back tenderness
• Numbness and tingling:
• On the skin of the back or buttocks
• Leg weakness (unilateral)
• Leg numbness (unilateral)
• Arm weakness (unilateral)
• Arm numbness (unilateral)
• Back pain or neck pain:
• Worsens with movement of the spine

Testing is usually required to confirm the diagnosis of a herniated disk.

Tests that may be used to evaluate a herniated disk include:

• Neck x-rays
• CT scan of the neck
• MRI scan of the neck
• EMG
• Spine x-rays
• CT scan of the back
• MRI scan of the back