When you see a physician about back or neck pain, they will typically request one or more imaging scans. A physical examination helps your physician understand your symptoms, and imaging confirms the specific cause so the right treatment can be chosen.
Based on the diagnosis your physician suspects, you may be scheduled for any of the following:
X-ray
Bones and alignment
You lie on a table or stand while images of the spinal bones are taken.
CT scan
Detailed bone images
A more detailed X-ray that produces cross-sectional images as the scanner circles your body.
MRI
Bones and soft tissue
Radio waves and a magnetic field create pictures of the bones, discs, nerves, and spinal cord.
Bone scan
Bone activity
A small amount of tracer highlights bone abnormalities, which appear lighter or darker than healthy bone.
Different conditions are best seen with different studies:
A physical examination shows how symptoms behave, but imaging is often needed to confirm the specific cause, such as a herniated disc, stenosis, or arthritis.
X-rays show the bones and alignment. CT produces detailed cross-sectional images of the bones. MRI shows the bones plus soft tissues such as discs, nerves, and the spinal cord.
MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves rather than radiation. Some implants and devices are not compatible with MRI, so tell your physician about any metal in your body.
A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a vein and absorbed by the bones. A camera then shows areas of abnormal bone activity, which appear lighter or darker than healthy bone.
Most spine MRIs do not need contrast. Contrast may be used in certain cases, such as after previous spine surgery or to evaluate infection or tumors.
Standing X-rays show the spine under the load of body weight, which helps assess alignment and slippage of the vertebrae.
If you have a recent MRI, our free MRI review lets a provider review it and see whether you may be a candidate for our treatments.
Your physician will order the right study based on the diagnosis they suspect. Call (321) 499-4646 to schedule an evaluation.
A few steps help your imaging go smoothly:
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