If you are experiencing symptoms of a slipped or herniated disc, your doctor may order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI. In some cases, a simple physical examination, medical history evaluation, and neurological exam are all that is necessary for your doctor to make a diagnosis. However, because symptoms of slipped discs can be similar to those of other neck and back conditions, your doctor may find it necessary to issue a slipped disc MRI in order to see the location of the herniated disc and identify the effected nerves.
An MRI uses a magnetic field and a radio frequency pulse to make two-dimensional image “slices” of organs, tendons, ligaments, bone, and other structures within the body. These images allow your doctor to see the exact location of a herniated disc, bulging disc, bone spurs, and other degeneration in the spinal column.
Before the MRI test, you will be asked to remove all metal objects and medicine patches from your body. You may be ineligible for an MRI if you have a pacemaker, have an IUD, or work around metal. Your doctor can fully discuss any risks of an MRI with you.
During the test, you will lie on your back on a retractable platform that enters the center of the MRI machine, which often resembles a long tube. The test takes about an hour to complete and you will be required to remain still the entire time, so you may consider taking a sedative if you are prone to claustrophobia. Additionally, you may be alone in the scanner room for certain periods of time, but the technician will watch you through a window and you will be able to communicate through a two-way intercom. The slipped disc MRI will not cause any pain, but you may experience discomfort from lying in the same position for a prolonged period of time.
After you and your doctor receive your slipped disc MRI results, your doctor may recommend slipped disc surgery as a treatment option. If that’s the case, the good news is that there are less-invasive options to traditional open back surgery. Laser Spine Institute (LSI) offers laser-assisted endoscopic procedures that have been effective at treating slipped disc symptoms in thousands of patients. Our procedures are performed with significantly less damage to muscles and tissues, so recovery time is quicker than that of traditional back surgery, and scarring is minimal. For more information on our revolutionary procedures, contact LSI today. We can review your MRI or CT scan, free of charge.
