Devices and methods for detection of markers of axial pain with or without radiculopathy

The invention provides devices and related methods and composition useful for diagnosis and monitoring the pain generator(s) of axial pain with or without radiculopathy and methods for screening test compounds potentially useful for treating axial pain with or without radiculopathy. Alternatively, degenerated discs can be monitored and treated before occurrence of a pathological pain condition. Pain markers and markers of degenerating disc include markers of neuronal, vascular, immune and matrix elements.