title: Diagnostic studies in clinical practice.
abstract: In conclusion, it has become obvious that the diagnostic approach to the patient with low back pain is multidisciplinary in nature. The diagnostic and treatment modalities available to the spine surgeon in 1983 have been expanded greatly. No longer does the frustration of dealing with a nebulous realm of pain complaints involving the low back have be tolerated. Specific diagnoses can be made and treatment instituted. New, less invasive diagnostic techniques continue to evolve, including such things as nuclear magnetic resonance. In addition, the importance of diet, physical exercise, relaxation, and overall fitness has become generally accepted in the United States today. It has also become much easier to gain the patient's cooperation in regard to his or her responsibility in the treatment program.
mesh_terms: D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D001416:Back Pain / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000523:psychology; D004576:Electromyography; D006801:Humans; D007403:Intervertebral Disc / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008159:Lumbar Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D009192:Myelography; D009788:Occupational Therapy; D010348:Patient Care Team; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011877:Radionuclide Imaging; D013115:Spinal Canal / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed