Spinal magnetic resonance imaging
Information that is typically gleaned from MRI results include:
Spinal alignment Disc height and hydration Vertebral body configuration Intervertebral disc - How does the disc appear? Is it normal, bulging, herniated, dehydrated or degenerated? Spinal canal size - Is it sufficient to comfortably accommodate the spinal cord and nerves? Is there spinal cord or nerve root compression? Nerves - Are the nerves “pinched” (compressed) or inflamed anywhere? Abnormalities - Are there any abnormalities near the spine that might simulate spinal pain? Spinal cord - Is the spinal cord normal in physical appearance? If post-surgery - Has anything changed since the spine surgery? Is there another disc herniation, postoperative scarring or infection?