![]() ![]() The computer digitally composes different angles, creating three-dimensional images of soft tissues and bones. The information goes to a computer that processes the X-rays. A CT scan takes a series of X-ray images from different angles around your body. Role of CT scansĪ computerized axial tomography (CT or CAT) scan is a specialized type of X-ray that can show soft tissue conditions. We may need to perform other types of diagnostic imaging to find causes like a herniated disc. If any of these appear on your X-ray, we have identified one cause of your sciatica, but not all the possibilities. As a result, X-rays seldom help us diagnose soft tissue problems.Ī standard X-ray provides information that can confirm or rule out some of the underlying causes of your sciatica. By comparison, soft tissues, like muscles, ligaments, and spinal discs show up in shades of gray. Their density determines how they appear in the X-ray.īones show up as white on a standard X-ray, revealing the full scope of details, from the slightest crack to obvious fractures. The structures in your spine absorb different amounts of radiation, depending on the tissue's density. When you have an X-ray, a small amount of radiation goes through your body. X-rays have an essential role in diagnosing spine problems associated with bones. When it comes to diagnostic imaging to identify the root cause of your sciatica, the most important factor is whether bones or soft tissues are responsible for the pinched nerve. Herniated discs (account for 90% of all cases).However, it most often occurs when age-related spinal degeneration causes conditions that push against the nerve. You may end up with sciatica after a traumatic injury. When a problem in the spine pinches the nerve, it causes lower back pain together with sciatica's hallmark symptom: severe pain that shoots down one leg. ![]() Near the bottom of your spine, the sciatica nerve branches off and runs down both legs. Sciatica refers to the symptoms you experience when you have a pinched sciatic nerve. The first step toward healing is taking X-rays that show the exact cause of your sciatica. Kim, MD, specializes in many treatments that ease the pain and help you stay active and healthy.īut there's only one way to heal the problem: diagnosing and treating the root cause. Sciatica, a condition that affects 40% of adults at some point in life, has a well-deserved reputation for causing debilitating low back and leg pain. ![]()
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