Back examination

Back examination is a physical examination where a medical professional assesses the condition of a patient's back. This examination is often performed when a patient presents with back pain or injury. The examination can help to identify the cause of the pain and guide treatment decisions.

Procedure

The back examination typically begins with the patient in a standing position. The examiner observes the patient's posture, looking for any abnormalities such as scoliosis or kyphosis. The patient is then asked to perform a series of movements to assess the range of motion in the back. This may include bending forward, backward, and to the sides, as well as twisting the torso.

Next, the patient lies down on an examination table and the examiner palpates (feels) the back for any areas of tenderness, swelling, or abnormality. The spine is also assessed for alignment and any signs of deformity.

In some cases, further tests may be performed, such as a straight leg raise test to check for signs of nerve root irritation, or a neurological examination to assess nerve function.

Findings

Abnormal findings during a back examination may include:

• Reduced range of motion
• Tenderness or pain on palpation
• Abnormal curvature of the spine
• Signs of nerve root irritation or damage

These findings can help to identify a range of conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, spinal disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and vertebral fractures.

See also

• Physical examination
• Spinal disc herniation
• Spinal stenosis
• Vertebral fractures