Discs in detail
Healthy discs appear bright and tall; worn discs darken, flatten or bulge. The scan shows exactly which levels are degenerated.
Diagnostics · Standard
MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging showing discs, nerves and soft tissues in detail, without radiation.
What it is
The most detailed look at discs and nerves
MRI uses magnets and radio waves rather than X-rays, so there is no ionizing radiation. It is unmatched for soft tissue — discs, nerve roots, the spinal cord and surrounding ligaments — which is why it is the central image in almost every spine assessment.
Nerve contact
Herniated material or narrowed exits pressing on a nerve root are visible — and can be matched to your pain pattern.
Canal and cord
Narrowing of the spinal canal and any signal change within the cord itself, which carries very different weight from simple wear.
Beyond wear and tear
Inflammation, infection, tumours and post-surgical changes each leave recognisable signatures a specialist reads in context.
An MRI less than about six months old is usually sufficient — but the scan must match your current symptoms. Bring the images themselves, not just the written report.
Common questions
Things patients ask us
Why might my MRI look worse than I feel — or better?
Imaging and symptoms often disagree. Many painless spines show degeneration, and real nerve pain can come from changes a scan underplays. That is why the scan is always read against your examination.
I am claustrophobic. What are my options?
Tell the team beforehand. There are ways to make the scan manageable, and the referral can be planned accordingly — never suffer through in silence.
What about metal implants or pacemakers?
These need checking before any MRI. Bring implant cards and a full device history so safety can be confirmed in advance.
Will I need contrast dye?
Only when the question requires it — for example infection, tumour or post-surgical assessment. Kidney function and allergies are checked first.
Start with your scan.
Send your MRI and a few lines about your symptoms. The ProSpine team will review your case and respond with the next steps.
Free · No obligation · Reviewed by the ProSpine team