Lower back (lumbosacral spine) X-ray
Quick answer: A lumbosacral spine X-ray shows the bones of the lower back and the base of the spine, their alignment and the spaces between them. Doctors order it for lower back pain after injury, long-standing pain, or leg symptoms. Bending views check for abnormal movement of the bones.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the number of views
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You change into a gown and remove belts and anything metal around the waist
- 2You lie on your back or stand against the plate for the front view
- 3For the side view you lie on your side or stand side-on
- 4For bending views you bend forward and then backward as far as is comfortable
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
The X-ray can show fractures, wear of the spine bones (spondylosis), narrowed disc spaces, one bone slipping forward on another (spondylolisthesis), or curves of the spine. Discs and nerves do not show, and many back X-ray changes are common with age and do not explain the pain.
Who usually has this test
People with back pain after an injury, back pain that has lasted many weeks, or pain with warning signs your doctor wants to check.
Risks and aftercare
Bending views can feel stiff if your back is sore; this area gets more radiation than an arm or leg X-ray, so it is especially important to tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: LS spine X-ray, lumbar spine X-ray, lower back X-ray
Options
- Front view (AP)
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
- Front, side and close-up views (with cone view)
- Close-up view (cone view)
- Bending forward and back (flexion and extension)
- Side view (lateral)
- Side and close-up views
- Angled view (oblique)
Listed by the hospital as
- L.S.SPINE AP DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S.SPINE AP, LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S.SPINE AP, LATL, CONE VIEW
- L.S.SPINE CONE VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S SPINE EXTENSION & FEXION DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S.SPINE LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S.SPINE LAT, CONE VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
- L.S.SPINE OBLIQUE DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
Do I need an X-ray for lower back pain?
Most new back pain gets better without any imaging, and guidelines advise against routine X-rays. Doctors order one when there has been an injury, the pain lasts, or there are warning signs.
Can a lower back X-ray show sciatica?
No, sciatica comes from a pressed nerve, which an X-ray cannot see. An MRI is used if nerve pressure needs to be checked.
What is spondylolisthesis on a back X-ray?
It means one spine bone has slipped forward over the one below it. Bending views help show whether the slip moves when you bend.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.