How to Confirm Disc Damage as the Cause of Back or Neck Pain

By: Dr. Sourabh Chachan

Jan 13, 2025

Back and neck pain can happen for different reasons, but one common cause is damage to the discs in your spine. This can lead to symptoms like stiffness, pain, or problems with nerves, which may mean there is an issue with the discs in your spine. To find out for sure if disc damage is the cause, the best step is to see a spine doctor. However, if you can't see a doctor right away, two tests can help confirm if a damaged disc is causing your pain: dynamic X-rays and MRI scans.

1. Dynamic X-Rays: A Key Diagnostic Tool
Dynamic X-rays are different from regular X-rays because they show your spine while it’s moving. This helps doctors see how your bones and discs line up and how they move when you bend or twist your back. Dynamic X-rays help doctors assess whether there is any movement-related defect, such as a misaligned disc or bone. While X-rays are great for examining bones, they have limitations when it comes to evaluating the discs. They can give a general idea of the disc’s condition but cannot provide a complete picture of disc damage.

2. MRI: The Gold Standard for Disc Evaluation
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a modern test that takes clear pictures of your spine. Unlike X-rays, MRIs can show more details, like if a disc is damaged, swollen, or pressing on nearby nerves. It helps doctors see exactly what’s wrong, which is important for deciding the best treatment.

Why These Tests Matter
Checking for disc damage with dynamic X-rays and MRIs is important because it helps decide the right treatment. If the problem is found early, it can often be treated successfully without surgery. The earlier the diagnosis, the simpler and more successful the treatment can be. Even in cases of advanced disc damage, modern medical technologies offer promising treatments with excellent outcomes.

Take Action Towards the Best Treatment for Back Pain
If you think your back or neck pain is due to disc damage, the first step is to confirm it with two important tests. After that, a doctor, especially a back pain expert Dr. Sourabh Chachan, can help you find the right treatment for your pain. Whether you need basic care or more advanced treatments, getting the right diagnosis early can bring relief and help you get back to living without pain.

It's important to see Dr. Sourabh Chachan, a well-known expert for back pain, to get the right treatment for your condition. Whether you have early disc problems or more serious issues, a back pain specialist can provide personalized care and help you find the best solution for your needs.

Schedule your online consultation now for expert spine care.
Contact: +91-88601-92800.