Neck Pain

Diagnostic Tests For Neck Pain

Diagnostic tests are done after understanding patient's medical history and physical examination. They find out the causes and amount of the pain. Complete history involves asking questions to patient like when did pain arise? Are there any problems with patient's bowel or bladder? Etc. Physical examinations involve evaluation of neck movement.

There are various laboratory tests for neck pain diagnosis. Some of them are-

X-ray test:

X rays give out picture of seven vertebrae with cushion of cartilage. It is used to discover damages or diseases in the neck. Even though exposure to radiation is considered as harmful, x ray test is more advantageous. CT (computed tomography) scans:

It gives sectional view of neck by using x-rays and computer technology simultaneously. Abnormal development in the neck can be determined by this test. Contrast die (generally iodine) is injected in the veins to produce image of the mass. Injection of die can cause burning in the hand, metallic taste for few moments. But afterwards this test is painless. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): It gives sectional views of the body like CT scan. It uses computer technology and very strong magnetic field. It uses radio waves instead of x-rays. It gives images of soft tissues. This test is faster than other tests and less harmful. It gives detailed pictures of neck without any obstruction by vertebrae. MRI is used to evaluate blood flow as well as flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Moreover this is painless test. Myelogram: It involves introduction of die into spinal system and making image of it by using x-rays or even CT scan. Herniated disks arthritis tumors or infections can be detected by using myelogram. Blood test:

Blood tests are used to find out infection or tumor. For example complete blood count or thyroid test. Complete blood count test finds out the number of WBCs (white blood cells) RBCs (red blood cells) and platelets in the given blood sample. Electromyogram (EMG): Speed of electrical messages sent to brain by nerve roots can be measured by EMG. This test lasts for approximately one hour and can be painful.