Your GP will usually be able to diagnose a slipped disc from your symptoms and medical history.
You will also have a physical examination, during which your GP will test your:
- reflexes
- muscle strength
- walking ability
- sensation in your limbs
Straight leg-raising test
While you are lying flat, your GP will slowly raise each of your legs, one at a time, to see if it causes any pain or discomfort in your legs or back. This is known as the straight leg raising test.
Most people with a slipped disc will not be able to raise their leg more than two thirds of the way up without feeling tingling, numbness and pain.
Further tests
Further tests are not usually required because in most cases the symptoms of a slipped disc settle down within a few weeks.
However, if your symptoms do not ease after 4-6 weeks, further tests may be required to rule out other conditions and investigate the size and position of the slipped disc.
Some of the tests that you may have are described below.
Magnetic resonance imaging scan
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of your body.
MRI scans are effective at showing the position and size of a slipped disc. They can also pinpoint the affected nerves.
Read more about MRI scan.
Computerised tomography scan
A computerised tomography (CT) scan uses a series of X-rays to scan parts of your body. A computer is used to build up detailed images of your body.
This produces cross-sectional images of your spinal column and the structures that surround it. Like an MRI scan, a CT scan can pinpoint a slipped disc, although it is often not as effective.
Read more about CT scan.
Discography
A discography is a test where a special dye is injected into the disc in your spine.
An X-ray will then be taken to show how the dye has spread around your back. The image will reveal any tears or leaks from your disc.
Other causes
The tests listed above can be used to check that your back pain is not being caused by another health condition such as:
- a tumour (growth)
- an infection
- arthritis - a painful condition that affects the joints and bones
