How is a slipped disc identified?

At the start of the diagnosis a thorough neurological examination is carried out by our doctors which can detect paralyses, feelings of numbness and differences in reflex response. An x-ray of the cervical spine or lumbar spine gives an idea of the bone structure. The most important examination procedure however is the MRI. No exposure to radiation is involved and it offers, in contrast to a CT, significantly more information in terms of size, extent and shape of the slipped disc, and information about the affected nerves.

Exact diagnosis through magnetic resonance imaging.

The tomographic images of the MRI permit an exact statement to be made about the condition of the intervertebral disc. Also an expert evaluation of the vertebral canal can be made.

The tomographic images of the MRI allows an exact statement regarding the state of wear to the disc and the vertebral joints. MRI images allows evaluation of the vertebral canal and the nerve channels. Reliable evidence can be provided for a slipped disc and also statements about the degree of severity of the prolapse/herniation is possible.

Nowadays therefore, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) makes an exact diagnosis possible in virtually 100 percent of cases (disc wear and tear, disc herniation/slipped disc or narrowing of the spinal canal, etc.) and also makes it possible to rule out less common but serious illnesses such as tumours or inflammation. Occasionally, computed tomography (CT) is helpful, particularly when bone changes needed to be examined or when a very recent slipped disc needs to be ruled out.