Spine MRI Scan - Cervical Spine or Lumbar Spine

Spine MRI – Examination, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Pain
Have you been living with persistent back pain or neck stiffness for too long?

Don’t rely on self-diagnosis based on how you feel. Spine MRI is one of the most important steps to accurately identify the cause before beginning treatment.

Spine MRI is a crucial imaging technique for the assessment and diagnosis of spine-related conditions, for the following reasons:

• Safe and radiation-free – MRI does not use X-rays, making it suitable for a wide range of patients.
• Provides detailed images of the spinal cord, intervertebral discs, nerves, and surrounding soft tissues.
• Early detection of disc herniation, spinal stenosis, spinal tumors, inflammation, infections, and even early signs of spinal cancer.
• Helps doctors develop precise and effective treatment plans tailored to the patient's condition.

Two Common Types of Spine MRI
In clinical practice, the two most common types of spine MRI are cervical spine MRI and lumbar spine MRI. Each plays an important role in diagnosing conditions specific to its respective region.

▪️ Cervical Spine MRI
Cervical spine MRI provides high-resolution images of the spinal cord, nerve roots, discs, and surrounding soft tissues in the neck area. This technique is particularly useful in diagnosing:

• Herniated discs
• Cervical spinal stenosis
• Spinal cord tumors
• Myelitis (spinal cord inflammation)
• Congenital abnormalities

In addition, dynamic MRI (performed in neck flexion and extension positions) can reveal abnormalities not visible in a neutral position—such as posture-dependent spinal canal narrowing—allowing for a more accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.

▪️ Lumbar Spine MRI
Lumbar spine MRI is essential in evaluating conditions such as:

• Lumbar disc herniation
• Lumbar spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease
• Spinal cord tumors
• Soft tissue injuries

This imaging technique allows for a detailed assessment of lumbar anatomy and helps detect abnormalities early. Importantly, MRI can accurately identify nerve root compression, helping determine the underlying cause of lower back pain and associated symptoms. It is a key tool in guiding both conservative and surgical treatment strategies.

When Should You Consider a Spine MRI?

You should consult a doctor for an MRI scan if you are experiencing:

Cervical Spine Symptoms:

• Persistent or recurrent neck pain
• Numbness or weakness in the arms or shoulders
• Pain radiating from the neck to the arms
• History of neck trauma, accidents, or falls

Lumbar Spine Symptoms: 

• Chronic lower back pain lasting for weeks
• Pain radiating to the buttocks or legs (possible sciatica)
• Numbness, weakness in the legs, or difficulty walking
• Suspected disc herniation, spinal tumors, inflammation, or infections
• Early MRI scanning helps prevent permanent nerve damage and improves treatment outcomes.

Expert Consultation and Care at CarePlus

At CarePlus, our board-certified radiologists provide expert consultations both before and after the MRI scan, ensuring an efficient and accurate diagnostic process. If complex conditions are discovered, our radiologists will collaborate with other medical specialists to ensure timely intervention and continuous, comprehensive care for our patients.