I have a lot of pain in my right leg. it starts in the butt andthigh. what type of tests are there to find out if and where a pinched nerve is in the back?

MRI : Talk to neuro surgeon who will determine what tests are required. Mri is the most precise.

MRI: The usual imaging examination is mr of the lumbosacral spine. This test is very good at detecting disc problems, nerve root compression and spinal stenosis. Both neurosurgeions and orthopedic surgeons utilize this tool in conjunction with physical examination and sometimes emg, testing muscle and nerve conduction.

This diagnosis is : Made by taking a careful history & doing a thorough physical examination with testing used to confirm the diagnosis if needed for further treatnent if initial care with time, activity modification, medication & physical therapy do not help. Then a lumbar MRI or ct if MRI contraindicated would be the ideal tests usually after 6 weeks of symptoms to help confirm diagnosis & guide further care.