The most prevalent indication for an MRI of the cervical spine is pain in the neck. Neck pain is incapacitating, particularly if other symptoms including arm weakness or numbness are present. MRI is usually indicated for two groups: those with new or acute pain and those with chronic pain, usually lasting over six weeks.
For acute neck pain, any presence of other symptoms that are indicative of infection, cancer, or spinal cord compromise suggests the emergent need for a cervical spine MRI performed in the emergency department. In chronic neck pain, MRI is occasionally employed when the patient acquires new symptoms of weakness or numbness. Cervical spine MRIs can be prescribed by most physicians in most healthcare facilities such as outpatient clinics, emergency rooms, and hospitals.
Neck pain that is associated with the cervical spine tends to be sharp or shock-like in character, occasionally reported as pins-and-needles. Other symptoms of the cervical spine include:
- Numbness or weakness of the arms
- Pain in the shoulders
- Head turning difficulty, or loss of cervical range of motion
More severe symptoms that could suggest a more urgent scan include:
- Night sweats or fever
- Shortness of breath
- Walkability difficulties
- Loss of control over bladder or bowel function
Conclusion
The reason why your doctor or physician recommended you MRI scan can be some reasons like – wrong posture, numbness, head moving difficulties, pain in neck and shoulder, and stress in the neck. In these cases you need an urgent MRI scan, and if you’re searching for best MRI neck scan near you contact the carebox.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Why did my doctor order an MRI scan of my neck?
Doctors order MRI scans of the neck to identify the cause of persistent neck pain, numbness, weakness, or other neurological symptoms that may be related to the cervical spine, the spinal cord, or the surrounding soft tissue structures.
Q. Is an MRI scan of the neck mandatory in all cases of neck pain?
Not always; MRI is often best in cases of severe, persistent (at least six weeks), or with other symptoms such as numbness, weakness, or bowel control problems.
Q. What conditions can a neck MRI detect?
A neck MRI can identify herniated or bulging discs, compression on the spinal cord, tumors, infections, spinal birth defects, trauma or injury, and degenerative processes in the cervical spine.
Q. How does an MRI of the neck differ from an X-ray or CT scan?
MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to take detailed moving images of soft tissue, nerves, and the spinal cord. In contrast, X-rays and CT scans image and show mainly bones and sometimes use radiation.
Q. Is an MRI scan of the neck safe?
MRI scans are considered safe and do not use ionizing radiation. However, are not appropriate for people with an assortment of metal implants or devices.
Q. How do I prepare for a neck MRI?
You are notified to not eat or drink before the scan if contrast dye is required. You must remove all metal objects and alert your provider of any implants. You should also alert your provider if you are claustrophobic.
Q. How long does a neck MRI take?
Thirty to sixty minutes, and sometimes two hours, depending on complexity.
Q. Will I be uncomfortable in the neck MRI?
The MRI machine is a confined space, so for some people, it can be uncomfortable. If you express claustrophobia, your provider can help you with medication to help you relax.
Q. When will I get my neck MRI results?
Results are typically read by a radiologist who will arrange for your provider to discuss the results. That can take a few days.
Q. Is there any risk to having a neck MRI?
There is minimal risk. The biggest concerns are if you have metal in your body, or an allergic reaction to contrast dye (if you receive contrast dye). You are not exposed to radiation.
