Back Pain Glossary » MRI Scan

Magnetic Resonance Imaging for Back Pain

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI scan) is an imaging test that allows physicians to assess a patient's spinal anatomy and to investigate the anatomical cause of the patient's back pain.  The technology was developed in the 1980's to help physicians detect abnormal spinal structures and better diagnose the exact cause of back distress.

The MRI scan can give a doctor a very accurate assessment of the condition of a person's spinal anatomy. The MRI scan reveals information such as disc height and hydration, vertebral configuration, the presence of bulging or herniated discs, the size of the spinal canal, the presence of pinched nerves and any other abnormalities.