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MRI and its importance in detecting back and neck pain.
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Back pain radiating down the legs, or neck pain radiating down the arms, are often signs of some kind of spinal abnormality, particularly affecting the intervertebral discs or nerves. While some people may start with minor symptoms, if left untreated, the underlying cause can worsen and significantly interfere with daily life.
"Accurate early diagnosis is the starting point for planning targeted treatment," and a tool that plays a significant role in this process is MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
Why is MRI important in diagnosing spinal diseases?
Pain in the back radiating down the leg, or in the neck radiating down the arm, is often associated with nerve compression, which may be caused by a herniated disc, joint degeneration, spinal displacement, or age-related spinal stenosis. MRI scans can provide detailed images of these structures, including tissues, nerves, discs, and the spine.
However, the most accurate diagnosis usually doesn't rely solely on MRI, but must be combined with X-rays. X-rays provide a comprehensive view of the bone structure, such as spinal curvature or joint displacement. Using both methods together allows doctors to accurately analyze symptoms and the root cause of pain.
Medical data confirms that MRI is over 97% accurate in detecting abnormalities related to spinal structure and the nervous system. Therefore, it is the tool of choice for specialists when diagnosing patients with chronic pain or suspected nerve compression.
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MRI is accurate and highly safe.
MRI is not a radiation-based examination; it uses magnetic fields to create images. Therefore, it is safer than X-rays or CT scans and does not pose any harm to the body. However, some patients, such as those with implanted metal devices or pacemakers, should consult a doctor before undergoing an MRI.
MRI scans are not as scary as many people think. The examination room atmosphere is very safe, and you can communicate with the specialized technicians at all times. At S Spine & Joint Hospital, we offer both standard lying-down MRI and standing MRI options, for cases where it is necessary to assess the condition while the patient is in the position where symptoms are actually occurring.
Horizontal MRI: High resolution, accurate, international standard.
The horizontal MRI machine at S Spine & Joint Hospital is a standard facility, providing high-definition imaging. This diagnostic technology uses radiofrequency ablation combined with a strong magnetic field to create 3D images of internal structures and organs. The high-resolution images show tissues, nerves, muscles, spinal cord, vertebrae, and joints, allowing doctors to clearly detect abnormalities.
This is especially useful when a doctor needs to plan specific treatment, such as addressing the location of a herniated disc or the degree of spinal stenosis. The examination takes no more than half an hour, and a diagnosis can be made immediately.
Standing MRI: An optional alternative when images in real-life posture are required.
For patients who experience symptoms only when standing, walking, or bearing weight, a standing MRI is a suitable option because it can diagnose conditions that closely resemble those during symptom onset. This is especially true for conditions such as joint dislocations or spinal instability that may not be apparent in a supine position. A standing MRI allows doctors to better visualize movement and pressure while the patient is in their natural posture.
In addition, standing MRI is suitable for those with claustrophobia because its more open layout compared to a tunnel-like MRI reduces feelings of claustrophobia and allows for a smoother examination.
Doctors recommend: The choice of MRI depends on the patient's symptoms.
The choice of whether to use a tunnel-type or standing MRI depends primarily on the patient's condition. If a spine specialist requires high-resolution images for accurate surgical planning, a lying MRI is more suitable. A standing MRI, on the other hand, is better suited for patients with symptoms specific to movement or when assessing compression occurring in certain positions to visualize the actual symptoms or compression.
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Therefore, choosing the right MRI machine is a crucial step. It not only helps identify abnormalities but also accurately determines the severity and location of the lesion, enabling doctors to plan the correct treatment.
Because we believe that the best way to treat pain is to know the root cause, at S & Joint Hospital we prioritize identifying the root cause using cutting-edge international technology. This ensures effective pain treatment and lasting recovery for our patients.
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