Review: MRI of the Spine, Precise and Painless Diagnosis of Chronic Back Pain
Back, neck, shoulder, and upper back pain are among the most common health concerns of the working-age population, particularly among office workers who remain seated in the same position for prolonged periods. The problem further exacerbates in individuals who spend several hours each day with their heads bent over mobile devices, placing excessive strain on the muscles of the neck, shoulders, back, and lower back. Additional contributing factors include lifting heavy objects without bending the knees, habitual wearing of high-heeled shoes, and sleeping on mattresses with poor spinal alignment support — all of which are well-recognized causes of back pain.
If left untreated or improperly managed, back pain can progress to more serious conditions such as chronic back pain, sciatica-like symptoms with radiating pain down the leg, and numbness or weakness in the extremity. These complications can significantly impair academic performance, work productivity, and quality of life.
Clinically, back pain is classifiable into three main categories: lower back pain, middle back pain, and upper back pain. Each region requires a tailored therapeutic approach. Accurate identification of the pain’s location, its underlying cause, and risk factors enables doctors to deliver precise and effective treatment, optimizing recovery and preventing recurrence.
MRI of the spine provides a detailed view of the spinal column, intervertebral discs, and nerve structures, enabling spine surgeons to formulate the most appropriate treatment plan for back pain.
MedPark Hospital invites individuals with office syndrome and chronic back pain to delve into this comprehensive MRI spine review, which showcases every step of the examination and the ambiance of our imaging services.
Review: MRI of the Spine: Comprehensive, Painless, and Safe Evaluation for Accurate Diagnosis of Chronic Back Pain
1. Schedule An Appointment
Once you have purchased the MRI Spine Program from our Online Store, you can schedule your appointment in advance through the following channels:
- Call Center: 02-023-3333 - Speak directly with our staff for further details and to schedule an appointment.
- My MedPark Application – Manage your appointments, check the doctor’s schedule, and set reminders in your smartphone calendar.
- LINE Official Account: Click here – Whether you wish to inquire about packages, check current promotions, or book an appointment via chat, the process is quick and effortless.
An advanced appointment ensures faster service, minimizes waiting time, and enhances the seamless treatment journey.
2. Patient Registration and Appointment Confirmation
First-time patients at MedPark Hospital have to provide personal information to establish a new medical record. You may do this by contacting our Call Center at 02-023-3333 or visiting the registration desk in person on the Ground Floor. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to complete registration before your appointment.
For returning patients, you can confirm your appointments directly with our staff at the Orthopedic Center, on the 5th floor, Counter A.
3. Vital Signs Measurement
After notifying the staff of your appointment, our registered nurse will escort you to the examination room to measure your vital signs, including blood pressure, pulse, respiratory rate, body temperature, and blood oxygen levels.
4. Medical History Taking and Physical Examination by a Spine Surgeon
Our spine surgeon will inquire about your medical history, lifestyle habits, and symptoms, and perform a comprehensive spine examination before ordering an MRI. Please inform the doctor if you have any implanted medical devices, such as pacemakers, intravascular stents, or vascular clips in the brain.
5. MRI of the Spine at the Medical Imaging Center, 6th Floor, Counter B
The Medical Imaging Center is located on the 6th floor, Counter B. After submitting your documents, our staff will give you a hospital gown.
If you are wearing any metal accessories such as earrings, rings, or bracelets, please remove them. You can store your clothing, valuables, and personal belongings in a private locker.
For your safety during the MRI scan, our nurse will reassess your vital signs and review your medical history to ensure you are ready for the procedure.
The radiology technologist will recommend using the restroom beforehand, as the MRI usually lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Afterwards, they will explain the steps of the MRI scan, assist you in wearing movement-restricting equipment, and provide earmuffs to shield you from the loud noises generated by the MRI machine. During the scan, it is essential to lie still on the table, which will gradually slide into the tunnel-shaped scanner to obtain the sharpest, most detailed images with minimal distortion.
If you experience significant anxiety or are claustrophobic, please notify us at least one day in advance. This information will help us evaluate the necessity of sedation or anesthesia and offer guidance on additional preparations, such as fasting for approximately 4 to 6 hours before the procedure.
During the MRI procedure, the radiology technologist inspects the images in real time and performs an initial review for any abnormalities.
6. MRI Spine Interpretation by a Radiologist
A radiologist specializing in spinal imaging will analyze the MRI images in the MRI reading room. The spine surgeon will receive the report for collaborative evaluation and diagnosis.
7. Review and Explanation of MRI Spine Results by the Spine Surgeon
Once all the test results are available, the spine surgeon will provide a detailed and easy-to-understand explanation of the MRI images, highlighting the abnormalities causing the pain. They will also explain the potential impacts and possible progression of other related symptoms that may develop in the future.
Additionally, they will provide guidance on appropriate treatment options, suitable physical therapy tailored to your condition, and lifestyle modifications. These include recommendations on proper posture based on ergonomic principles, suitable exercise regimens, and long-term strategies for spinal care.
If you have any further questions about spinal health management, do not hesitate to ask the spine surgeon. They are approachable and willing to address all your concerns.
8. Collect the Diagnostic Report and Return Home.
After discussing your MRI with the spine surgeon, if no urgent treatment is required, you may gather your medical report from a nurse at the counter and return home.
In cases where abnormalities are detected and the spine surgeon recommends surgical treatment, our nurse will assist in coordinating appointments or preparing referral documents for further care.
MRI of the spine for chronic back pain is highly beneficial and accurate. Results are often available on the same day, enabling detection of underlying abnormalities at an early stage.
Undergoing an MRI of the spine is a straightforward and generally comfortable process. You should not ignore chronic back pain, as it may progress to more complex medical conditions. An early and thorough MRI evaluation can help prevent complications from worsening and significantly improve your chances of resuming your lifestyle.
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a sophisticated diagnostic imaging technology leveraging powerful magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to generate intricately detailed images of the body’s internal structures. It can delineate internal organs with exceptional clarity, particularly of the soft tissues, muscles, nerves, and intervertebral discs.
Advantages of MRI of the Spine
A key advantage of spinal MRI is its ability to produce detailed cross-sectional and three-dimensional images of the spine with exceptional clarity. It distinctly differentiates between various tissues, including bone, ligaments, nerves, and muscles. Unlike other imaging modalities, such as X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not involve exposure to radiation or contrast agents. It can detect subtle abnormalities at an early stage. Importantly, the procedure is safe and painless.
The MRI machine can capture detailed images of the spine and surrounding tissues, enabling precise detection of various conditions, including:
- Herniated discs
- Degenerative spinal changes
- Tumors or infections of the vertebrae
- Nerve compression
- Spinal canal stenosis
- Accurate diagnosis with MRI is essential for formulating precise treatment plans and significantly reducing the risk of long-term complications that could negatively impact quality of life.
What Can MRI of the Spine Detect?
Spinal MRI can assess the spine from the cervical area to the lower pelvis. We usually divide the spinal examination into three parts. The spine surgeon will determine which area to image based on the patient’s specific pain location and symptoms:
- Cervical Spine MRI: Recommended for patients experiencing chronic neck pain, radiating pain down the arms, numbness, weakness, or loss of bladder and bowel control.
- Thoracic Spine MRI: Suitable for those with severe mid-back pain radiating around the chest, persistent back discomfort, leg spasm or stiffness, and balance problems.
- Lumbar Spine MRI: Indicated for patients suffering from intense lower back pain, pain radiating into the legs, numbness, leg weakness during walking, muscle spasms or cramps, loss of bladder or bowel control, and decreased sexual function.
Is Contrast Injection Necessary for MRI of the Spine?
For those concerned about safety or radiation exposure during an MRI, rest assured that this imaging technique utilizes magnetic fields and radiofrequency electromagnetic waves rather than ionizing radiation. Spinal MRI is a safe procedure that avoids harmful radiation and often requires no contrast agents, allowing for repeatable usage as deemed necessary by the doctor.
Who Should Undergo MRI of the Spine?
If you experience persistent back pain lasting several weeks or have ineffective previous treatments for chronic back pain, a spinal MRI can provide detailed insights into the physical condition of the affected area. It enables accurate identification of the underlying cause, precise treatment, and effective management of chronic back pain.
When Is MRI of the Spine Necessary?
Although most cases of back pain improve with rest, office ergonomics, frequent changes in posture, exercise, or physical therapy, an MRI is warranted if symptoms persist or you observe any of the following warning signs. In such cases, we strongly advise prompt consultation with a spine doctor.
- Back pain persisting for more than two weeks
- Pain radiating down the leg, numbness, or weakness
- Severe back pain causing insomnia or difficulty with movement
- Accompanying symptoms such as fever, weight loss, or other unusual signs
- History of spinal injury or a family history of spinal disorders
Beyond lifestyle-related causes, chronic back pain may also indicate underlying medical conditions such as:
- Herniated disc
- Osteoporosis
- Degenerative spine disease
- Spinal displacement or deformity
- Spinal infection
- Arthritis
Accurate diagnosis of these conditions is essential for appropriate treatment. MRI of the Spine serves as a vital diagnostic tool, offering detailed images of soft tissues, muscles, intervertebral discs, and bone structures.
Where Should You Have an MRI of the Spine?
For patients suffering from chronic back pain or symptoms such as radiating leg pain, numbness, or weakness potentially linked to the spine or intervertebral discs, MRIs are an invaluable diagnostic tool that allows for accurate identification of the underlying cause before initiating appropriate treatment.
When choosing a facility for spinal MRI, it is crucial to consider the following key factors:
- The procedure should be performed and interpreted by a specialized spine team with extensive experience in MRI diagnostics. Their expertise in correlating imaging results with clinical symptoms is pivotal for accurate diagnosis and guiding effective patient management.
- The latest MRI technology generates high-resolution, three-dimensional imaging that delineates the intricate details of intervertebral discs, nerves, and surrounding soft tissues, particularly in the lumbar region, where spinal issues are most prevalent.
- A dedicated team of healthcare professionals and nurses provides attentive support and guidance before, during, and after the scan, ensuring patients feel confident, reassured, and well-informed about post-procedure care.
- The imaging facility offers a safe, hygienic, and comfortable environment for all patients, ensuring privacy, a calming atmosphere, and seamless assistance throughout the examination process.
- In cases of identified abnormalities, a multidisciplinary team comprising spine surgeons, physiatrists, and physical therapists is available to deliver comprehensive, coordinated care, promoting a better quality of life.
Choosing a healthcare facility with advanced spinal MRI services, a skilled medical team, and comprehensive support ensures high-quality care throughout the treatment process.
MedPark Hospital is one of the premier choices for those seeking a trusted center for spinal MRI examinations.
Why Choose MedPark Hospital for MRI of the Spine?
- A highly experienced orthopedic surgeon with specialized expertise in spinal disorders, possessing meticulous attention to detail and an empathetic understanding of how pain affects patients’ lives, conducts assessments to arrive at the diagnosis. Our surgeons can provide comprehensive recommendations covering all aspects of care. They dedicate themselves to delivering effective treatment to resolve or alleviate chronic pain while actively engaging patients in choosing personalized treatment options to improve their overall quality of life.
- The team collaborates with radiologists and a multidisciplinary team specializing in spinal care, bringing extensive experience in detecting and diagnosing back pain at all levels through precise and detailed MRI imaging, allowing accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
- We utilize advanced medical technology, including a 3-Tesla MRI machine, which produces high-resolution, three-dimensional images for clear visualization of bones and soft tissues. It can efficiently identify the underlying causes and locate infections in the bones, intervertebral discs, joint abnormalities from repetitive strain or injury, and other conditions such as bone or soft tissue tumors.
- We offer a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach that ensures seamless communication and coordination among specialists across various fields, enhancing diagnostic accuracy for complex cases. When treatment requires collaboration with other centers or clinics, we can efficiently facilitate prompt referrals for timely care.
- We offer a wide range of services, including valet parking, wheelchair services, comfortable waiting areas, and on-site dining.
Safe, Painless, and Comprehensive MRI Spine Program
- For your convenience, please schedule an appointment in advance through the following channels: Orthopedic Center: 5th Floor, Counter A, Tel: 02-090-3116
(Monday – Friday: 8 AM – 8 PM; Saturday – Sunday: 8 AM – 5 PM) - MedPark Call Center: Tel. 02-023-3333
- My MedPark Application: Schedule your appointment anytime using the Direct Appointment feature and conveniently set reminders in your smartphone calendar.
Download the app here:
