I have Backache. Do I need an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic modality utilizing magnetic fields and radio frequency fields to produce high-contrast images of the body.

While a good clinical history and detailed physical examination by a skilled doctor is often sufficient for an initial diagnosis and treatment of a patient with back pain, it is sometimes preferable to proceed to imaging.

Compared to X-rays, an MRI will produce a much better image , especially when it is necessary to see the soft tissues more clearly. These may include:

• Para-vertebral muscles
• Inter-vertebral disc
• Epidural spaces
• Spinal cord and nerves

Some special situations in which your doctor may order an spine MRI for back pain would include cases where it is associated with:

• Unexplained fever
• Weakness of any limb or an unexplained difficulty in walking
• Loss of defecation and/or urinary control
• Sensory loss
• Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
• Signs of spine arthritis on X-Rays
• X-Rays showing decreased inter-vertebral space or collapse of vertebral bodies

In such situations, the MRI could help make a diagnosis of, or exclude:

• Spinal cord problems:
  • Spinal cord trauma
  • Spinal cord abscess (infection)
  • Cauda equina syndrome
    
  • Spinal cord tumor
  • Tethered cord syndrome
• Disc problems:
  • Slipped disc
  • Discitis (infection of the intervertebral disc)
  • Disc degeneration
• Spinal canal diseases:
  • Spinal canal stenosis
  • Hypertrophy of longitudinal ligaments
• Vertebrae problems:
  • Compression fractures

If you are suffering from back ache, stiffness or pain, and are unsure whether an MRI is necessary,
simply call us at +65 6732 2397 or leave a message below for Dr Tan to discuss a customized non-invasive back pain solution for you.