Neck MRI

Neck problems can limit physical function and cause severe pain. LA MRI Center, Inc. in  Koreatown, Los Angeles, California, specializes in using MRIs to help patients find out the cause of neck pain, lost function and other symptoms. The practice’s cutting-edge open MRI technology creates detailed images of your neck in safety and comfort. Call LA MRI Center, Inc. to learn more about neck MRIs, or complete the online booking form today.

What is a neck MRI?

An MRI is a painless scan that creates images of your organs and tissues using energy from powerful magnets and radio waves. A neck MRI focuses on your cervical spine, including the neck vertebrae, discs, connective tissues, muscles, and nerves.

Each MRI image is a cross-sectional tissue slice. One MRI contains multiple slices that combine to form highly detailed digital images.

LA MRI Center, Inc. stores your neck MRI images on a computer and provides your  referring doctor a medical report. Images are available digitally or on a cd, if necessary. 

How does an MRI work?

Your body is around 80% water, which consists of oxygen and hydrogen atoms. When the hydrogen atoms meet a magnetic field (as when you have an MRI), they form a line in one direction. The MRI’s radiofrequency waves disrupt this alignment; then, the atoms return to their original position when the radio waves stop.

MRI machines have sensors that detect how long atoms can realign with the magnetic field after a radiofrequency disruption. Different tissues take varying times to realign which the machine measures and records. MRI software then translates the data into images.

Why do I need a neck MRI?

Neck MRIs help your provider to diagnose cervical spine pain and dysfunction. They might recommend a neck MRI if you have pain that doesn’t improve with conservative treatment or develop nerve-related symptoms like numbness, tingling, and weakness.

Neck MRIs produce detailed pictures of numerous neck conditions, including:

• Bulging or herniated discs
• Spinal infections
• Spinal injury or trauma
• Spinal abnormalities
• Scoliosis (abnormal spinal curvature)
• Sports injuries
• Car accident injuries
• Slip and fall injuries
• Vertebral compression fractures
• Strains and sprains
• Arthritis

You might also require a neck MRI before spinal surgery to help your surgeon plan the procedure or afterward to assess the results.

Is a neck MRI painful?

MRIs are noninvasive and painless. The only issue that may cause problems is the enclosed design of traditional tunnel-shaped MRIs which can induce claustrophobia in some patients.

LA MRI Center, Inc. uses the cutting-edge Hitachi Airis II™ Open MRI to prevent claustrophobia.

Call LA MRI Center, Inc. today to learn more about undergoing a neck MRI or schedule a consultation online today.