Two-Dimensional Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of the Causes of Various Types of Low Back Pain

Abstract

An accurate definition of the cause and mechanism of low back pain remains an urgent problem in medicine. Pain in the lower back can manifest as lumbago, sciatica, inflammation of the epidural space. Among the causes of lower back pain, the leading place is occupied by degenerative changes in the intervertebral discs with the development of a hernia or protrusion. The size and location of a hernia or protrusion, the presence of an inflammatory process in the epidural space often determine the nature of the clinical symptomatology. MRI is the main method of diagnosing changes in discs and ligamentous apparatus. In some cases, interpretation of MRI images may vary considerably among different specialists. In some patients, its use may be limited. Ultrasonography is an alternative method for diagnosing degenerative-dystrophic changes in the motor segment and the causes of low back pain.