Chronic back pain can be frustrating and difficult to diagnose. While X-rays and MRIs provide valuable information, sometimes they aren’t enough to pinpoint the exact source of pain. That’s where lumbar discography comes in. At California Sports & Spine Institute (CSSI), Dr. Maxim Moradian and our team use this specialized diagnostic test to help patients get accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans.

What is Lumbar Discography?

Lumbar discography is a minimally invasive diagnostic procedure designed to identify which discs in your lower back may be causing pain. During the test, a small needle is carefully inserted into one or more intervertebral discs, and a contrast dye is injected. This allows the physician to evaluate both the structure of the disc and the pain response it triggers.

Unlike imaging tests alone, lumbar discography helps doctors determine whether a disc is actually the source of your pain, which is critical when considering treatments such as spinal surgery or targeted therapies.

When is Lumbar Discography Performed?

Lumbar discography is typically recommended in cases where:

Patients experience persistent lower back pain that has not improved with conservative treatments.

Imaging results (MRI, CT scans) show degenerative changes, but it’s unclear which disc is responsible for the pain.

A patient is being evaluated for surgical intervention, such as spinal fusion, and the surgeon needs to confirm the symptomatic disc

There is uncertainty about multiple disc issues, and precise localization is essential for effective treatment.

What to Expect During the Procedure

The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation.

Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray), the physician guides a thin needle into the disc.

A small amount of contrast dye is injected, and your pain response is recorded.

The physician may test multiple discs to compare responses and identify the exact source of pain.

After the procedure, patients may experience mild soreness, which typically resolves within a day or two.

Why Lumbar Discography is Important

Lumbar discography provides critical information that cannot always be obtained through imaging alone:

It identifies the exact disc causing pain, allowing for targeted treatment.

Helps doctors plan surgical or non-surgical interventions with precision.

Reduces the risk of unnecessary procedures by confirming the problem before treatment.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

If you’re struggling with chronic lower back pain and want a precise diagnosis, lumbar discography at California Sports & Spine Institute may be the key to getting answers. Dr. Maxim Moradian and our team are dedicated to using advanced diagnostic tools to develop personalized, effective treatment plans that improve your quality of life.

📞 Schedule a consultation today at one of our locations:

Arcadia: (818) 338-6860 | (626) 460-1096

Glendale: (818) 338-6860 | (626) 460-1096

Palmdale: (818) 338-6860 | (626) 460-1096

Don’t let back pain hold you back—get a diagnosis you can trust and start on the path to relief.