Various diagnostic tests for lumbar compression fracture

In order to reach to a definite conclusion and pin point root cause and damage to the vertebrae, it is necessary to conduct few essential diagnostic tests on patients suffering from lumbar compression fracture. X-rays help in verifying decrease in space between two discs, hypertrophy of facet, sclerosis i.e. hardening of nerve bundle, bone spurs, pathological changes, presence of infection and suspected vertebral fracture. CAT scan like X-ray can show both bones and soft tissues.

If involvement of nerves in fracture is suspected or cause of pain is to be ascertained, MRI might be recommended. MRI scan does not use radiation and instead use magnetic and radio waves that create computer-generated images to show any abnormality of nerves and ligaments and to know age of fracture, sometimes a nuclear bone scan is also recommended.

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