brain mapping: functional MRI and DTI. Functional MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a noninvasive diagnostic test that measures small changes in blood flow as a person performs tasks while in the MRI scanner. Functional MRI detects the brain in action (e.g., speaking or moving).
Back injections may help treat two major back pain problems: radiculopathy and spinal stenosis. Doctors also use injections for other types of back pain. Sometimes, they also use them to help find out what's causing the pain. Radiculopathy refers to inflammation or damage to a nerve usually in the neck or the low back.
For more information on injections, see Injections for Back Pain Relief Article continues below This article focuses on oral pain relievers and the most common categories of medications used for lower back pain and neck pain. In This Article: Medications for Back Pain and Neck Pain