Conclusion
Like any other symptom, back pain diagnosis follows a sequence in which history taking, physical exam, and diagnostic tests are all necessary. However, back pain differs from other pathologies because diagnostic testing is not done in all patients. The physical exam and the medical history gather most signs and symptoms relevant to the diagnosis.
In the medical history, doctors will evaluate the characteristics of pain and related symptoms. They will also ask you if you had any previous health problems related to back pain.
In the physical exam, doctors will use inspection and palpation to assess back pain. They may also use certain maneuvers to trigger specific signs that help them trace the problem to any given pathology.
Diagnostic tests are usually imaging tests performed in patients with chronic and subacute disease. Not all patients require imaging testing, and they are reserved for red-flag cases or when the nervous system is involved.
Identifying the cause of back pain is fundamental to achieving long-lasting resolution. Still, many cases are left with the diagnosis of non-specific back pain and improve with over-the-counter medications. If your back pain dates back from months or years, and if you have lingering pain or one that keeps coming back, it is recommended to talk to your doctor about it to find out the real cause. That is the best course of action if you want to achieve relief in the long term and diagnose any underlying disease.