Patients with back pain have variable presentation depending on the severity of pain and associated signs and symptoms. If fever is present then infectious cause should be investigated. Signs of trauma should be observed, including, contusions, abrasions, point tenderness. Restricted range of motion and muscular tenderness are observed in patients with lumbosacral muscle strains/sprains. Pain on extension and rotation of hips may be present in patients with lumbar spondylosis along with pain radiating to hips. Point tenderness can be seen in patients with vertebral compression fracture. [Genitourinary]] examination of patients with back pain is usually normal. However, if any abnormality is recognized further investigation must be done to rule-out a more serious condition. Paresthesia, sensory deficit, decreased muscular strength or diminished reflexes may be observed in patients with herniated disc. Straight leg raise (SLR) should be done to investigate for lumbar disk herniation. Motor deficit in legs and sensory loss is also seen in patients with spinal stenosis. One leg hyperextension test looks for pars interarticularis defect as a cause of back pain.
Back pain physical examination
Spinal cord compression physical examination
Spinal stenosis physical examination
Osteoarthritis physical examination
Back pain electrocardiogram
Scoliosis physical examination
Back pain MRI
Osteomyelitis physical examination