Neck MRI

If you have neck pain and weakness or loss of function affecting your arms, you could benefit from a neck MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan. Burbank Imaging and Open MRI Inc in Burbank, California, has state-of-the-art open MRI that provides exceptionally detailed images of the structures in your neck. To arrange your neck MRI, call Burbank Imaging and Open MRI Inc today or book an appointment online.

What is a neck MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a painless scan that uses energy from strong magnets and radio waves. It creates highly detailed images of your body’s insides. A neck MRI scans your cervical spine (the vertebrae in your neck) and soft tissues.

Each MRI image or slice is a cross-section of tissue. One MRI scan can contain hundreds of slices, which come together to form complete digital images.

Burbank Imaging and Open MRI Inc stores the MRI images on a computer. They can convert the data into 3-D images to help your doctor diagnose and assess all kinds of health problems.

How does an MRI work?

Your body is around 80% water, which contains hydrogen atoms. When the atoms meet the MRI’s magnetic field, they line up in one direction. The MRI’s radiofrequency waves interfere with the uniform alignment, but the atoms go back to their starting position when the radio waves are off.

The MRI machine has a sensor that measures how long it takes for your atoms to line up with the magnetic field again. It takes varying lengths of time for this to happen in different tissues. The system’s software then translates the information into images.

You might need a contrast dye injected into a vein before your MRI. The contrast material helps your provider see blood vessels or abnormalities like tumors in your neck in more detail.

Why would I need a neck MRI?

A neck MRI helps to diagnose pain in your cervical spine. You might need a neck MRI if your pain isn’t improving with conservative treatment or if you have symptoms like numbness or weakness.

A neck MRI can highlight:

• Spinal abnormalities
• Bulging or herniated discs
• Spinal or nearby infections
• Aneurysms (arterial bulges)
• Spinal injury or trauma
• Abnormal spinal curvature (scoliosis)
• Cancer or tumors in your neck
• Other vascular disorders
• Soft tissue disorders
• Bone abnormalities

You might also need a neck MRI before or after spinal surgery.

What can I expect during a neck MRI?

A standard MRI machine is a large, long tube that surrounds your body. You lie on a sliding bed inside the tube, which many people find claustrophobic, especially when the MRI makes banging noises while it’s working.

Burbank Imaging and Open MRI Inc overcomes this problem with open MRI technology. Instead of enclosing you on all sides, the open MRI machine gives you a feeling of space that standard MRI can’t match.

If you need a neck MRI, contact the experts at Burbank Imaging and Open MRI Inc. Call their office or book an appointment online today.