Having an MRI for back pain and sciatica – what should I expect?
An MRI for back pain and sciatica provides detailed images of the spine, discs, and nerves to identify causes of pain such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis. It’s safe, painless, and the results are reviewed by a consultant radiologist.
Follow-up explanation
Back pain and sciatica (nerve pain down the leg) are among the most common reasons for medical imaging. While X-rays or CT scans can show bone problems, an MRI gives a much clearer view of the soft tissues, discs, and nerves.
A back MRI can reveal:
- Herniated or slipped discs pressing on spinal nerves
- Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
- Nerve root compression, often the cause of sciatica
- Degenerative disc disease and age-related changes
- Inflammation, infection, or tumours in rare cases
This makes MRI the gold standard for investigating persistent back pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
What happens during the scan
- Duration: Typically 20-40 minutes.
- Position: You will lie on your back while the scanner takes images of your spine.
- Noise: The machine makes loud tapping sounds, but ear protection is provided.
- Movement: Staying still is important for clear images.
If needed, a contrast injection may be used to highlight certain tissues or rule out other causes.
How MRI helps your treatment plan
The scan doesn’t just confirm the cause of your pain, it also helps guide the right treatment. Before booking, you can make the right decision about a private MRI by evaluating its costs and benefits. Your doctor may use the MRI results to:
- Recommend physiotherapy or rehabilitation exercises
- Consider pain management injections
- Decide whether surgery is appropriate in severe cases
- Rule out serious but less common causes (such as tumours or infection)
Access to results & ongoing support
With GetScanned, your MRI images are reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who provides a structured medical report. You will get secure online access to both your scan and report, which you can share with your GP, physiotherapist, or specialist. This ensures continuity of care and helps you move quickly to the right next step.
What you need to book
- Scan type: MRI scan
- Body part: Spine / lower back
- Preferred clinic location: Nationwide coverage
- Date & time: Choose what suits you
- Payment: Secure online checkout
Back pain and sciatica are very common, and an MRI is the most accurate way to find out if a nerve is being compressed. This helps guide the right treatment, whether that’s physiotherapy, pain relief, or surgery.
What you need to book
Scan type
E.g. MRI scan.
Preferred clinic location
Nationwide coverage.
Date & time
Choose the date and time that suits your schedule.
Payment
Secure online checkout with 3-month interest free payment option.
