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Diagnostic Guide

Back Pain Diagnosis: Tests & Costs in Illinois

Back pain affects 80% of adults at some point. While most back pain resolves on its own, persistent or severe pain may require diagnostic testing to identify the cause. Common tests include X-rays, MRI, and CT scans, with costs varying significantly between facilities.

Compare Test Prices in Illinois

Seek Emergency Care If You Have:

  • Loss of bladder or bowel control
  • Progressive leg weakness
  • Severe pain with fever
  • Pain following significant trauma
  • Numbness in the groin area (saddle anesthesia)

Call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.

Common Causes

Back Pain can have many causes, ranging from minor to serious:

Muscle strain or sprain
Herniated or bulging disc
Degenerative disc disease
Spinal stenosis
Sciatica (nerve compression)
Osteoarthritis
Compression fractures
Scoliosis

Diagnostic Tests for Back Pain

Lumbar MRI

Detailed images of soft tissues including discs, nerves, and spinal cord

$450 - $2,340

When used: Suspected disc herniation, nerve compression, or spinal stenosis

Spine X-Ray

Quick imaging for bone problems, fractures, and alignment issues

$50 - $450

When used: First-line test for trauma, suspected fractures, or scoliosis

CT Scan (Spine)

Detailed bone imaging, often used when MRI is not possible

$350 - $1,800

When used: Suspected fractures, bone spurs, or when MRI is contraindicated

EMG/Nerve Conduction

Tests nerve function and muscle response

$200 - $1,000

When used: Suspected nerve damage or to identify which nerve is affected

Prices shown are typical ranges for Illinois facilities. Click any test to compare actual prices.

When to See a Doctor

See a doctor if back pain lasts more than 2-4 weeks, radiates down your leg, is accompanied by numbness or weakness, or follows an injury. Seek immediate care for back pain with fever, loss of bladder/bowel control, or unexplained weight loss.

What to Expect

Most doctors start with a physical exam and may try conservative treatment (rest, physical therapy, OTC pain relievers) before ordering imaging. If pain persists 4-6 weeks or red flags are present, imaging tests help identify structural problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

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