Workers compensation tests for low back pain include radiological imaging tests.
X-rays
X-rays show problems with bones, such as fractures, degeneration, the amount of space in the neural foramina and between the discs.
Flexion and Extension X-rays
Special X-rays called flexion and extension X-rays can determine if there is instability between vertebrae. These X-rays are taken from the side as you lean as far forward and then as far backward as you can. Comparing the two X-rays allows the doctor to see how much motion occurs between each spinal segment.
MRI Scans
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses magnetic waves to create pictures of the lumbar spine in slices. The MRI scan shows the lumbar spine bones as well as the soft tissue structures such as the discs, joints, and nerves. MRI scans are painless and are the most common test to look at the lumbar spine after X-rays.
CT Scans
The computed tomography (CT) scan is a special X-ray that lets doctors see slices of bone tissue. It is used primarily when problems are suspected in the bones.
Myelogram
The myelogram is a special kind of X-ray test where dye is injected into the spinal sac. The dye shows up on an X-ray. It helps a doctor see if there is a herniated disc, pressure on the spinal cord or spinal nerves. The myelogram is still used today but not often. The myelogram is usually combined with CT scan to give more detail.
Discogram
The discogram is another specialized X-ray test. A discogram has two parts. First, saline is injected into the disc to create pressure inside the disc. If this reproduces your pain, then it suggests that the disc is the source of your pain. During the second part of the test, dye is injected into the disc. The dye can be seen on X-ray and CT scan outlining the inside of the disc showing abnormalities of the nucleus such as annular tears and ruptures of the disc.
Bone Scan
A bone scan is a special test where radioactive tracers are injected into your blood stream. The tracers then show up on special X-rays of your back. The tracers build up in areas where bone is undergoing a rapid repair process, such as a healing fracture. Other tests such as CT scan or MRI scan are then used to look at the area in detail.
McCormick Law Office attorneys in Milwaukee, Wisconsin believe in better results in workers compensation claims for benefits when the diagnostic imaging tests confirm the work-related low back injury or condition. These imaging tests are trustworthy and give honest information. We scour the medical records for test results to support the surgeon opinion.
Recent Comments