![]() MRIs are often used to diagnose bone and joint issues, as well as ligament damage and herniation of spinal discs. The radio waves cause the tissues in the body to resonate, and these vibrations are translated into a comprehensive 2D image through the use of a special computer program. Instead, the machine creates a magnetic field around the patient and sends radio waves into the area of the body being examined. One benefit of an MRI is that it does not involve radiation like an X-ray or CT scan. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, and it uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to create highly-detailed cross-section images of bones and tissues inside the body. Even if the doctor suspects that you may be suffering from a soft tissue injury in your spine, they still may order an x-ray to ensure there isn’t any underlying damage to the bone. X-rays allow doctors to see the bones and vertebrae in your spine, which allows them to look for disc degeneration, fractures and abnormal curvature of the spine. An x-ray uses radiation to produce images of dense objects inside the body. X-rays are probably the most common diagnostic imaging technique. Today, we explain why doctors would use each imaging technique when diagnosing back pain. Three diagnostic techniques that are often utilized when assessing spine pain are the X-ray, MRI and CT scan. Sometimes all it takes is a physical exam and an understanding of the patient’s medical history, while other times more advanced techniques are needed. Request an appointment today to speak with a member of our team.The Differences Between X-Ray, MRI & CT Scans For Spine Pain Category: Spine Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropiĭoctors and surgeons have numerous tools at their disposal to aid in the diagnosis stage of patient evaluation. The imaging specialists at AHI are committed to helping you uncover the answers behind your symptoms or condition. Additionally, if you’re worried about claustrophobia, you may want to talk with your doctor about taking an anti-anxiety medication before the procedure. The process is not painful at all, but it can be boring for many people so you may want to request to listen to some music or a podcast. That helps focus the magnetic waves to create the images.ĭuring the cervical spine MRI, you have to stay completely still. Then, the imaging technician places a coil-shaped frame over your head and neck area. It’s not required in every situation, but if your doctor requests it, you may have to fast before your appointment.Īt the imaging center, you lie down in the MRI machine. This is a special dye that helps the images to show up more clearly. What Happens During a Cervical Spine MRI?īefore the cervical spine MRI, you may have to drink some contrast liquid or it may be administered through an IV. At American Health Imaging, we offer extended evening hours and Saturday appointments so your medical care can fit into your schedule with no need for you to take off work. How Long Is a Cervical Spine MRI?Ī cervical spine MRI can last up to an hour. Try our cost calculator to see how much you can save. If you need a cervical spine MRI, AHI can provide it at a fraction of the cost of most hospitals. Abnormal curvature of the cervical spineĭepending on your pain issues, especially if spinal abnormalities are suspected, your doctor may also order a lumbar MRI for your lower back.Typically, doctors recommend cervical spine MRIs when they suspect that you have a certain problem or to diagnose unexplained pain from an accident or injury. There are many issues a cervical spine MRI can help to diagnose. In particular, an MRI shows a cross-section of your tissue, and each cross section is so thin that a single MRI actually creates hundreds of images of your neck. Whereas an X-ray just shows your spine or neck bones, an MRI shows your soft tissues. But what does an MRI of the cervical spine show, and how can the results help you reduce or eliminate your pain? What Is a Cervical Spine MRI?Ī cervical spine MRI is different from an X-ray, although both are imaging techniques. If you’re experiencing neck pain, your doctor may recommend a cervical spine MRI scan. What Does an MRI of the Cervical Spine Show?
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