The patient may be asked to lean forward and back and bend from side to side. See Leg Pain and Numbness: What Might These Symptoms Mean? Reflexes may be slower than normal or nonexistent. Muscle strength and reflexes in other areas are also likely to be checked. The patient may be asked to walk normally and on tiptoes to check for a condition called foot drop, in which the muscles used to flex the ankles and toes are weakened. To determine whether there is a neurological problem, the doctor typically looks for signs of loss of sensation, such as numbness, and weakness in the leg and foot. The physical examination is crucial to the diagnosis, and usually includes observation of the patient bending and stretching. Physical Exam to Diagnose Lumbar Herniated Disc A lumbar herniated disc is more likely if a family member has the condition.Īny experience with depression or anxiety should also be part of the discussion, since this information may be helpful in planning treatment.

The doctor will probably inquire about previous treatments or injuries. Having a physically demanding job or regularly performing repairs or other strenuous work at home can put pressure on a lumbar disc. See When Back Pain Is a Spine Compression Fracture Osteoporosis, for instance, increases the risk of a fracture. Other medical conditions could be a factor.

The patient may be asked to describe the pain, including its location and which activities or positions make it better or worse. Questions about when and how the pain started are typical, particularly if there was any type of traumatic injury. See Diagnosing Disc Problems Questions to Expect People showing symptoms of a lumbar herniated disc can expect the doctor to conduct a detailed interview and perform a thorough physical exam.

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