Diagnosis-Evaluation
Electromyogram (EMG)
This test evaluates nerve and muscle function.
Blood tests
The following blood tests may be advised :
How Serious is Back Pain ?
The seriousness of back pain depends on the cause.
Tumour, infection, and fractures are serious problems but are rare. Cauda equina syndrome, in which the nerves in the lower part of the spinal canal are compressed, may result in permanent incontinence (inability to control urination ) if the compression is not immediately relieved by surgery.
Cause of back pain may be serious if :
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It wakes up a person from sleep.
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It occurs in children (although many cases of back pain in children do not turn out to be serious).
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It occurs along with an inability to control urine or stools.
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It is accompanied by unexplained fever or weight loss.
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It occurs in someone with a history of cancer.
