About a whole spine MRI scan
The spine is divided into three main sections: the cervical spine (neck), the thoracic spine (upper and middle back) and the lumbar spine (lower back). It protects the spinal cord, which runs from the brain down to the upper part of the lower back, and the nerves that branch off it to the arms, body and legs. A whole spine MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays, to scan all three sections in one appointment.
Most back or neck problems only need one section scanned, such as a lumbar spine MRI for sciatica or a cervical spine MRI for neck and arm symptoms, or a thoracic spine MRI for the upper back. A whole spine scan is used when:
- symptoms could be coming from more than one level, such as pain or numbness in both the arms and legs
- the whole spinal cord needs to be checked, for example for inflammation or patches of multiple sclerosis (MS)
- a condition can affect several parts of the spine, such as spread of cancer to the bones (spinal metastases), inflammatory arthritis like ankylosing spondylitis, or scoliosis
- following up a known problem, such as a syrinx (fluid-filled cavity in the spinal cord), or after spinal surgery
Because it covers a larger area, the scan takes longer than scanning one section. You can read more in our articles on cervical, thoracic and lumbar spine MRI.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed with coils under your neck and back. A cushion under your knees can make this more comfortable. The scanner is loud, so you will wear ear plugs or headphones, and the radiographer can talk to you throughout. The bed may move part-way through so each section of the spine can be scanned, and you need to keep still for each set of pictures. Contrast dye is not usually needed, but may be used to look for inflammation, infection or tumours; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
A whole spine MRI can help to look at:
- disc problems and nerve compression at several levels
- narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis)
- problems with the spinal cord, including MS and inflammation
- spread of cancer to the spine
- fractures, including those caused by osteoporosis
- inflammatory arthritis, such as ankylosing spondylitis
- infection of the bones or discs
- scoliosis and other changes in the shape of the spine
When to get urgent help: call 999 or go to A&E if you have back pain with numbness around your genitals or bottom, new problems controlling your bladder or bowel, or new weakness or numbness in your arms or legs. If you have had cancer and develop new back or neck pain, especially pain that is worse at night or when you cough or strain, contact your cancer team straight away. These can be signs of spinal cord compression, which needs emergency treatment.
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally. The scan is longer than most, so if lying flat is painful, you may want to take your usual painkillers before your appointment. Upload any previous X-ray, scan or blood test reports when you book.
You can usually eat, drink and take your normal medicines unless the scanning centre tells you otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips or buttons, and leave jewellery at home. You will be asked to remove metal items such as hair clips, hearing aids, coins and keys, and you may be asked to change into a gown.
Before the scan you will complete a safety questionnaire. Tell the team if you have a pacemaker, any metal implant, surgical clips or other device, if you have kidney problems or allergies, or if you are, or might be, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you feel anxious in enclosed spaces, let us know when you book. Some centres can offer a relaxant, and if you take one you will need someone to take you home and must not drive for 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a whole spine scan or just one section?
Most back and neck problems only need the section causing symptoms to be scanned. A whole spine scan is used when symptoms could come from more than one level or when the whole spinal cord needs to be checked. Your referrer will say which is needed; if you are unsure, contact us before booking.
How long will I be in the scanner?
Usually around 45–60 minutes, as three sections of the spine are scanned. The radiographer will talk to you between each set of pictures.
Can a whole spine MRI show MS?
MRI can show patches of inflammation (lesions) in the spinal cord. MS is diagnosed by a neurologist using MRI of the brain and spine together with your symptoms and other tests.
Do I need a referral?
You can tell us if you have a referral from your GP, physiotherapist or consultant and upload it when you book. If you do not have one, select “no referral” when you book and the scanning centre will confirm the next steps with you.
Sources
- NICE NG234 – Spinal metastases and metastatic spinal cord compression
- NICE QS56 – Imaging and treatment plans for adults with suspected spinal metastases
- NHS – Multiple sclerosis: diagnosis
- NHS – Back pain
- RadiologyInfo.org – MRI of the Spine
- NHS – MRI scan
The information on this page has been gathered from various sources and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice. TOP MRI is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of this information. Please speak to your doctor or the scanning centre about your own situation.