Finding the right tests…
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Finding the right tests…
X-Ray
The dorso-lumbar, or DL, spine is the stretch where your 12 chest-level vertebrae hand off to your 5 lower-back vertebrae, and this front-on X-ray pictures that whole transition in one image. Taken from the front, it shows the width and side-to-side symmetry of each vertebra and is the angle doctors use to measure a curve if scoliosis is suspected, since a coronal, or front-facing, view is what that measurement is based on. It is commonly ordered for mid-back to lower-back pain that spans more than one region, or as a first check when a spinal curve has been noticed on examination.
This front-facing image covers both the lower thoracic and upper lumbar vertebrae, showing bone width, pedicle spacing, and whether the column drifts to one side. It is the view used to measure a sideways spinal curve when scoliosis is a concern, and it is read together with your exam findings rather than as a stand-alone diagnosis.
The dorso-lumbar region sits where the spine's curve changes direction, from the outward thoracic curve to the inward lumbar curve, which makes it a common site to check when back pain does not sit neatly in either the mid-back or the lower back alone.
A front-on, or coronal, X-ray is the standard angle for measuring how far a spine curves sideways, which is why this view gets ordered when scoliosis is suspected in a child or adult, or to track a curve that is already being followed. It also shows whether the vertebrae are symmetric and evenly spaced across the transition zone.
This view alone does not show how the vertebrae stack front to back, so it will not pick up compression height loss or disc narrowing the way a side view would. Where trauma, osteoporosis risk, or unexplained height loss in the vertebrae is a concern, your doctor may add a side-view film as well.
A front-facing X-ray is the standard angle for measuring a sideways spinal curve, which is why this view is chosen when scoliosis is suspected or being tracked. A side view would not show that curve as clearly.
It refers to the transition zone where the 12 chest-level, or thoracic, vertebrae meet the 5 lumbar vertebrae of the lower back. This single X-ray covers both ends of that transition.
A front view alone is less suited to this than a side view, which shows vertebral height more clearly. Your doctor may add a lateral film if a compression fracture is suspected.
You will usually stand or lie facing the machine so the beam passes from front to back through your spine. The technologist will position you and may ask you to hold still briefly.
This page is general information about the test, not medical advice. Your own report's reference ranges apply — please discuss your results with your doctor.
No. Adults are also referred for this view for back pain across the mid-to-lower back region or to track a curve first noticed years earlier.
Most patients come with a doctor's request so the radiologist knows what to look for. Ask your doctor or the centre about their specific process.
Yes, this AP view is available on its own. Your doctor decides whether one view or a combined AP/LAT study fits what they need to see.