Back Pain Articles A-Z
A variety of tests are available to help doctors make a lower back pain diagnosis. This eMedTV article describes each of these tests in detail, such as discography, myleogram, and x-rays, and explains when each one might be used.
People seeking lower back pain relief may try medications, complementary/alternative methods, or surgery. This eMedTV article takes an in-depth look at these and other pain-relief techniques, including ice and heat, bed rest, and exercise.
It may take months for a person to be fully healed after lower back surgery, and some people may suffer from permanent loss of flexibility. This eMedTV article describes the types of lower back surgery that are available, including a discectomy.
This eMedTV page includes information about the spine and how it relates to lumbar spinal stenosis. The condition is generally the result of pressure on the lower part of the spinal cord or on nerve roots. Links to more information are also provided.
Piriformis syndrome is caused when the muscle with the same name compresses or irritates the sciatic nerve. This eMedTV article describes the symptoms and treatment options for this condition, which is a rare neuromuscular disorder.