What Is a Spine MRI and How Can It Help Diagnose Back Issues?
A Spine MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive imaging technique used to examine the spinal cord, vertebrae, and surrounding tissues in detail. It uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the spine without the need for radiation. This procedure is commonly recommended by doctors when patients experience persistent back pain, numbness, weakness, or other symptoms that may indicate a spinal condition. During the MRI, the patient lies on a table that slides into the MRI machine, which captures high-resolution images of the spine from various angles.
These images allow Doctors to evaluate the spine for conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, infections, or degenerative diseases. MRI scans can also help detect injuries to the spinal cord and nerves, making them an essential tool for diagnosing and planning treatment for spine-related issues. One of the advantages of a spine MRI is its ability to provide detailed images of soft tissues, which are not visible on X-rays. This makes it an ideal diagnostic tool for identifying conditions that may not show up through other imaging methods. The procedure is generally safe, although it may not be suitable for individuals with certain implants, such as pacemakers.
