Abstract: A method of detecting inflammation of a nerve root adjacent to a spine of a patient using an ultrasound apparatus. The present method includes the steps of providing an ultrasound apparatus including an ultrasonic transducer interconnected with a source of electrical energy and with a receiver having amplification means, positioning the ultrasonic transducer on the patient's back in a location lateral to the spine, angling the ultrasonic transducer such that ultrasonic energy can be directed medialad to the spine, transmitting ultrasonic energy toward the nerve root at a power level and a frequency effective to create a reflection from an inflamed nerve root that is detectable by the ultrasound apparatus, and processing ultrasonic energy reflected from the nerve root. Ultrasound apparatus including ultrasonic transducers are also disclosed.