When you have back pain, it pays to see a chiropractor who can grant you a proper diagnosis. Pinpointing the cause of the pain will help determine the course of your treatment, so it’s imperative the diagnosis is accurate. To start, your chiropractic physician will ask you about the nature of your pain and run some tests. In certain cases, they may even take X-rays. At The Chiropractic & Sports Injury Center of Cincinnati, expert physicians use state-of-the-art technology and comprehensive care to provide effective back pain treatment for a number of conditions. Here, they discuss the most effective diagnosis process.

How Does a Chiropractor Diagnose Back Pain?

Medical History

Your chiropractic physician will ask numerous questions about your medical history—including any physical or mental health conditions—to get an idea of your body as a whole. They will also ask you to rate your back pain, how long you’ve been experiencing it, when it feels better or worse, and the nature of your occupation. Your physician may inquire about respiratory symptoms, pelvic pain, and if you’re a woman, your menstrual cycle.

Physical Exam

After a verbal assessment, chiropractors will check for nerve damage by ensuring you feel the same sensations in your arms, legs, and back. They will also check your reflexes and muscle strength. Your physician will then ask you to perform different movements to see if your range of motion is limited in any way. In some cases, they may take X-rays, although this is usually only necessary in cases of traumatic injury.

An accurate diagnosis is a crucial starting point for determining the right back pain treatment. Your chiropractic physician will assess your medical history and conduct a thorough physical examination to rule out certain possibilities and design a custom treatment plan. To receive unrivaled care for sports injuries and general pain, call The Chiropractic & Sports Injury Center of Cincinnati at (513) 677-2200 or visit them online today.