Tests for Chronic Back Pain:

  • X-rays

  • MRI

  • CT Myelogram / CT- if MRI cannot be done

  • EMG if leg pain/ tingling

  • Bone density scan if fracture on x-ray or for routine screening in older people, especially women, for weak bones (osteoporosis)

MRI shows nerve pinching that corresponds to my leg pain/ tingling/ numbness
X-ray and MRI shows significant spine instability, that corresponds to my problem
MRI shows neither of the above