CT Scan for Lower Back Pain: What It Can and Can’t Detect
If you’ve ever dealt with lower back pain, you know how frustrating it can be. Itcan disrupt your daily life, making simple tasks feel impossible. When the pain lingers or worsens, a CT scan for lower back pain might offer a way to figure out what’s going on. But here’s the thing: while this CT scan is a powerful imaging test, it’s not a universal solution for every type of back pain.
So, what exactly can a CT scan for lower back pain detect? And what are its limitations? More importantly, when is it the right choice, and when might other tests like an MRI be more useful?
This blog answers all of the above questions.
Plus, if you have been searching online for the “best place to get a CT scan for lower back pain near me,” our blog will suggest the most suitable place to get this scan at an affordable CT scan for lower back pain cost.
What is a CT Scan of the Lower Back?
A CT scan of the lower back (also known as a lumbar spine CT scan) is a specialised imaging test that uses X-rays and computer processing to create detailed, cross-sectional images of your lower back, including the bones, muscles, and tissues.
When diagnosing lower back pain, these CT scans are especially valuable for detecting abnormalities that may not be visible on standard X-rays.
What Can a CT Scan for Lower Back Pain Detect?
If your lower back pain is persistent and affecting your daily life, a CT scan for lower back pain could be a valuable tool in figuring out the root cause. It is particularly effective in identifying:
Spinal Fractures
If you’ve had an accident, injury, or trauma, a CT scan of the lower back can clearly show broken bones or small cracks in the vertebrae that might be causing pain.
Herniated or Bulging Discs
A CT scan of the lower back with contrast dye can highlight intervertebral discs and detect disc problems that may be pressing on nerves, causing pain and discomfort.
Spinal Stenosis
This condition occurs when the spaces within your spine canal narrow, putting pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. A CT scan of the lower back helps visualise these narrow spaces and guide treatment plans.
Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD)
Age-related wear and tear can lead to disc degeneration, which can also cause chronic back pain. If you are old, you can choose to get a CT scan for lower back pain to diagnose the severity of disc deterioration.
Bone Spurs and Arthritis
Osteoarthritis and bone spurs (osteophytes)can also lead to stiffness and pain in the lower back. So, if you are suffering from pain, you can get a CT scan for the lower back pain to check for any bony growths that might be impinging on nerves or restricting movement.
Tumours or Abnormal Growths
While rare, tumours or abnormal masses in the spine can also cause persistent back pain. A CT scan of the lower back pain can help detect these growths, which may require further testing.
What Can’t a CT Scan for Lower Back Pain Detect?
While CT scans for lower back pain are valuable for diagnosing certain causes of pain, they have limitations and may not detect all potential issues accurately:
Muscle Strains and Ligament Injuries:
If your lower back pain is due to a pulled muscle or ligament damage, a CT scan of the lower back won’t pick it up since it provides limited detail on soft tissues.
Spinal Cord and Nerve Issues:
CT scans may not consistently provide enough detail to properly assess the spinal cord and nerve roots. MRI is often preferred for evaluating these structures. For example, conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) or sciatica (where a nerve is irritated or compressed) require an MRI instead of a CT scan of the lower back to get a clearer picture.
Disc Issues Without Contrast:
A regular CT scan for the lower back pain may miss minor disc herniations or bulges pressing on nerves. In such cases, a CT myelogram (which uses contrast dye) or an MRI is usually more effective.
Inflammation and Early-Stage Diseases:
Conditions like early-stage infections, inflammatory diseases, or autoimmune disorders affecting the spine may not be easily visible on a CT scan of the lower back. Blood tests and MRI scans may be required for further evaluation.
In short, if your back pain is due to soft tissue injuries, disc issues, nerve problems, spinal cord issues, or inflammation, a CT scan for lower back pain alone might not give you the full picture. That’s why doctors often consider your symptoms, medical history, and other tests before deciding on the right scan.
When Should You Get a CT Scan for Lower Back Pain?
A CT scan of the lower back isn’t always the first choice for diagnosing back pain. Doctors usually start with a physical exam and may recommend simpler imaging tests like X-rays before considering a CT scan. However, a CT scan becomes necessary if:
- Your doctor suspects a spinal fracture or bone-related issue.
- You have persistent pain despite treatments.
- There are signs of a tumour or an infection.
- You are preparing for spinal surgery and need detailed imaging.
- You’ve had a serious injury due to a car accident, a fall, or suffered a direct blow to your back.
- You can’t have an MRI. (Some people can’t undergo an MRI due to metal implants, pacemakers, or claustrophobia.)
How Much Does a CT Scan for Lower Back Pain Cost?
The CT scan for lower back pain price varies depending on factors like your location, whether contrast dye is used, and whether you go to a public hospital or a private imaging center.
If you’re searching for an affordable and reliable CT scan for lower back pain near me, consider a reputable diagnostic centre like CareWell Diagnostix.
At CareWell, we strive to offer competitive pricing and flexible payment options, such as bulk billing, for eligible patients. Contact us for more details on our exact CT scan price for lower back pain or to book the scan.