Things to Consider Before Getting an MRI of the Spine: What Patients Should Know

Introduction

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced and commonly used diagnostic tools for evaluating spinal conditions. Whether you're dealing with chronic back pain, numbness, or suspected disc injury, your provider may recommend a spine MRI to obtain detailed images of the soft tissues, discs, spinal cord, and nerves.

However, before undergoing the scan, it’s important to understand when an MRI is appropriate, how to prepare for it, and what the results mean. At SPINE Center, Chesterfield, we prioritize patient education and informed decision-making. Below, we outline key factors to consider before getting an MRI of the spine.

1. Understand Why the MRI Is Being Ordered

MRI is not a first-line diagnostic tool for all types of back or neck pain. While it's highly useful for detecting soft tissue abnormalities such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, tumors, infections, and nerve compression, it is generally recommended when:

• Symptoms persist for several weeks despite conservative treatment
  
  
• There are signs of neurological compromise (e.g., weakness, numbness, or loss of bowel/bladder control)
  
  
• Surgery is being considered
  
  
• The provider suspects serious underlying pathology
  
  

2. Consider Timing and Insurance Coverage

An MRI can be expensive, and many insurance providers require prior authorization or proof that other treatments—like physical therapy or medication—have been tried first. It’s important to:

• Verify insurance coverage and pre-authorization requirements
  
  
• Check whether the facility is in-network
  
  
• Understand potential out-of-pocket costs
  
  

Delaying an MRI due to insurance barriers can be frustrating, but in non-urgent cases, it often allows time for symptoms to improve naturally.

3. Disclose All Implants and Medical Devices

MRI machines use powerful magnets that can interact with certain metal implants or devices in the body. Be sure to inform your provider or MRI technician if you have:

• Pacemakers or defibrillators
  
  
• Cochlear (ear) implants
  
  
• Spinal cord stimulators
  
  
• Metal clips (e.g., for aneurysms)
  
  
• Artificial joints or hardware from previous spine surgery
  
  

Some implants are MRI-safe, while others may require alternative imaging like CT or X-ray.

4. Know the Differences Between MRI Types

Depending on the suspected condition, your physician may order different types of spinal MRI:

• Cervical MRI – for neck-related symptoms
  
  
• Thoracic MRI – for upper/mid-back issues
  
  
• Lumbar MRI – for lower back pain, sciatica
  
  
• Contrast MRI – uses gadolinium dye to highlight inflammation, tumors, or infections
  
  

In some cases, dynamic or positional MRI may be used to assess instability. Make sure you understand the type of MRI being ordered and why.

5. Prepare for the Scan Experience

An MRI scan is non-invasive, but it requires remaining still inside a narrow, tube-like machine for 30 to 60 minutes. Here are a few preparation tips:

• Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing
  
  
• Remove jewelry, hairpins, or anything metallic
  
  
• Inform staff if you experience claustrophobia—open MRI or sedation options are available
  
  
• Use the restroom before the scan begins
  
  
• Bring a list of medications or allergies
  
  

If you are anxious, ask whether anti-anxiety medication or a mild sedative can be prescribed ahead of time.

6. Understand MRI Limitations

Although MRIs offer detailed imaging, they don’t always correlate perfectly with symptoms. For example:

• Many people have disc bulges or degenerative changes on MRI with no pain at all
  
  
• MRI findings alone should not dictate surgical decisions
  
  
• False positives can lead to unnecessary treatments if not interpreted in clinical context
  
  

This is why MRI results must always be interpreted by a qualified spine specialist in combination with a thorough physical examination and symptom history.

7. Choose an Experienced Spine Provider to Review Results

Not all spine conditions require surgery, even if abnormalities are seen on MRI. At SPINE Center, Chesterfield, our board-certified spine specialists are trained to:

• Interpret MRI findings in context
  
  
• Identify when imaging matches clinical symptoms
  
  
• Recommend appropriate next steps, whether conservative or surgical
  
  

Our multidisciplinary team uses imaging as one component of a comprehensive diagnostic approach—not the sole factor in decision-making.

Informed Imaging Leads to Better Spine Care

Getting an MRI of the spine can be an important step toward diagnosing and managing back or neck pain. However, it should be done at the right time, for the right reasons, and with the right support. Understanding what to expect, how to prepare, and how the results will be used helps ensure that imaging contributes meaningfully to your recovery.

If you’ve been advised to undergo a spine MRI—or are unsure whether it's necessary—schedule a consultation with SPINE Center, Chesterfield. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the diagnostic process with expertise and clarity.

FAQs About Spinal MRI

Can I get an MRI if I’ve had spine surgery?
Yes, but make sure to inform the radiology team about any implanted hardware or previous fusion levels.

How long does a spine MRI take?
Most scans take between 30 to 60 minutes depending on the area and whether contrast is used.

Is an MRI better than an X-ray or CT scan for back pain?
MRI provides better soft tissue detail and is superior for nerve or disc issues. X-rays are more useful for bone alignment and fractures; CT is often used for complex bone imaging.

Related Spine Care Articles

• What to Expect During Your First Spine Consultation
  
  
• Understanding Herniated Discs: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
  
  
• When Is It Time to See a Spine Specialist?