Laboratory Tests to Determine Back Pain

Back pain can be caused by a variety of underlying conditions, some of which can be diagnosed through laboratory tests. Common laboratory tests used to help diagnose back pain include:

1. Complete blood count (CBC): A CBC measures different components of the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Abnormal levels of these components can indicate an underlying condition causing back pain.
2. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP): These tests measure levels of inflammation in the body, which can help diagnose inflammatory conditions that cause back pain.
3. Urinalysis: A urinalysis can detect infections or kidney problems that may cause back pain.
4. Blood glucose test: Elevated blood glucose levels can indicate diabetes, which can cause nerve damage and back pain.
5. Imaging tests: X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide detailed images of the bones, muscles, and other tissues in the back, helping to identify any abnormalities or damage that may be causing back pain.

It is important to note that laboratory tests alone cannot diagnose the cause of back pain. They are often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools, such as physical examination and medical history, to determine the underlying cause of back pain.