X-Rays

X-Rays can show bone deformities or fractures of the spine.   Although the disks themselves cannot be seen, vertebrae that appear too close together may indicate that the disk has ruptured or degenerated.  Though helpful in diagnosing certain diseases, such as ankylosing spondylitis and osteoporosis, X-rays are more valuable for what they rule out (for example, cancer or tuberculosis) than for what they reveal. 

Cat Scans

CAT scans (computerized axial tomography) are special X-rays used with a computer to produce images of a “slice” of anatomic tissue.  They're good for looking at the spinal cord, spinal bones, fractures, osteoarthritis damage, narrowed spinal canal (spinal stenosis), tumors, and spinal cord infections.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and a computer to create highly detailed images of soft tissues, such as muscles, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, blood vessels, and, to a lesser extent, bone.  MRI can also show disk degeneration, protrusion, and rupture; infection; and other spinal disorders.

Myleograms

A myleogram is another type of X-Ray examination.  Before taking X-rays, the radiologist injects a contrast medium (dye) into the spinal canal.  This dye blocks X-rays and outlines the spinal cord and spinal nerves.  Myelograms can show a ruptured disk.

Electromyograms