Spinal MRI Clinic in San Francisco, CA
Presidio Pain Relief offers advanced imaging technology to diagnose and treat spinal conditions. Our experienced team of specialists utilizes state-of-the-art MRI machines to provide accurate and detailed images of the spine, helping to identify issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease. These images play a crucial role in developing personalized treatment plans, including pain management strategies, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgical interventions.
For more information, contact us or book an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109.
What will a spinal MRI show?
Spinal MRI aids us in identifying any damage or changes in the vertebrae, such as fractures, infections, or degenerative changes related to aging or conditions like arthritis. It also helps us detect structural abnormalities like herniated or bulging discs, narrowing of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis), bone spurs or osteophytes, dislocations, and deformities like scoliosis or kyphosis that may be causing discomfort to our patients.
We believe in addressing the root cause of the pain. A spinal MRI can reveal issues with the disks, which are the soft cushions between the vertebrae. If a disk ruptures or degenerates, it can put pressure on the nerves and cause pain or other symptoms.
We also use spinal MRI in assessing conditions that cause nerve damage like nerve root impingement or compression and degenerative changes in the spinal cord or nerve roots. It can reveal any compression or damage to the nerves or the spinal cord, which could potentially cause symptoms such as pain, weakness, or numbness.
Moreover, spinal MRI is instrumental in helping us identify the presence of any tumors or growths in the spine, whether they are benign or malignant. It provides us with detailed images of the tumor, including its size, location, and the extent of its effect on the surrounding structures.
The MRI can also help us detect infections in or around the spine or identify inflammatory diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis and infections such as osteomyelitis or discitis. This enables us to decide the best treatment approach for these conditions.
How long does a spinal MRI take?
We recognize that the duration of a spinal MRI can be contingent on several factors, including the specific area of the spine being examined, the number of scan sequences required, and the patient's comfort and readiness. If the entire spine needs to be imaged or the MRI is being performed to monitor the progress of a previously diagnosed condition, this could extend the procedure time.
We prioritize patient comfort and strive to make the process as swift and comfortable as possible. We ask patients to arrive early to complete necessary paperwork and prepare for the procedure. We understand that patients may feel anxious and will take the necessary time to ensure they feel comfortable before proceeding with the scan.
Following the scan, a brief waiting period may be required while our radiologist ensures all necessary images have been captured. We consider the duration of the MRI crucial for patient comfort, diagnostic accuracy, and scheduling efficiency.
If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming spinal MRI, we encourage you to speak with our team. We can provide a more precise estimate based on your personal circumstances and specific procedure. Please note that the duration of a spinal MRI can vary significantly from one facility to another, so we recommend discussing the expected scan time with our team.
Can an MRI detect spinal damage?
The high resolution and contrast sensitivity of an MRI can help us differentiate between healthy and damaged spinal tissues, reveal inflammation, swelling, or tissue disruption, and provide a comprehensive view of the spine and surrounding tissues. This level of detailed imaging assists us in spotting abnormalities, changes in the spinal structure, and assessing various anatomical regions.
Our use of MRI scans assists in detecting a wide range of spinal conditions, injuries, and abnormalities. These can include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, fractures, infections, and tumors. MRI scans can also monitor the progression of degenerative disorders and the effectiveness of treatment interventions.
However, while MRI is highly effective in detecting structural abnormalities, it may not always identify the underlying cause of a patient’s symptoms. That’s why we incorporate a comprehensive approach that may involve further diagnostic tests or a thorough clinical history to determine the root cause of the spinal damage.
The choice of diagnostic methods is always based on a patient's specific symptoms, medical history, and the type of damage that is suspected. It's also worth noting that while MRIs are generally safe, they may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as those with implanted medical devices or those who are claustrophobic. Rest assured, our team will always prioritize your comfort and safety in every decision we make.
When should you get an MRI of the spine?
If you've had persistent or severe pain for more than six weeks that hasn't improved with conservative treatments such as physical therapy and medication, or if your pain radiates down your arms or legs, our healthcare providers may suggest an MRI. The same applies if your pain is accompanied by tingling, numbness, or weakness.
We also consider an MRI of the spine when you present with progressive neurological symptoms like difficulty with coordination, progressively losing sensation or strength in your legs, persistent headaches or migraines, or signs of spinal cord dysfunction. These symptoms could be a sign of a serious condition that requires immediate attention.
Our healthcare providers may recommend an MRI if they suspect conditions such as a herniated or protruded disc, lumbar or cervical spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal), spondylosis (degenerative changes in the vertebrae and discs), suspected spinal tumors or infections, or congenital spinal abnormalities.
Furthermore, if you've been involved in a severe accident or trauma and there's a possibility of spinal cord injury, an MRI scan can help assess the extent of the damage. It can also be useful in preoperative planning or postoperative evaluation.
For conditions like scoliosis (curvature of the spine), an MRI can be beneficial in diagnosing or managing the condition.
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For more information, contact us or book an appointment with the experienced team at Presidio Pain Relief in San Francisco, California. We are conveniently located at 2000 Van Ness Ave, #208 San Francisco, CA 94109. We serve patients from Daly City CA, Sunset District CA, Bernal Heights CA, Bayview CA, Mission District CA, and surrounding areas.
