Living with Chronic Neck Pain: When It’s Time to Get More Information With an MRI

Chronic neck pain can wear you down physically, mentally, and emotionally. If yours isn’t improving or you’re unsure of the cause, an MRI can reveal what’s really going on so you can get the right treatment and lasting relief.

Up to 8 in 10 Americans experience neck pain at some point, and for many, that pain becomes chronic and debilitating. The first step toward finding long-term relief is often advanced imaging, specifically a neck MRI, and at LA MRI Center in Koreatown, Los Angeles, California, that's our specialty.

We help our patients find answers every day through advanced MRI imaging. Our friendly and supportive staff makes your MRI experience as easy and comfortable as possible. From quick scheduling and free parking to fast results, we’re known for taking the stress out of medical imaging.

In this blog, we delve into the question: When is the right time to get more info about your neck pain with an MRI?

Understanding the root of neck pain

Neck pain can come from many different sources. Common culprits include:

Muscle strain
Herniated cervical discs
Arthritis
Pinched nerves
Flare-up of past injuries

An MRI provides your doctor with a detailed look at your spine, muscles, and soft tissues, revealing what’s causing your pain and how extensive it is.

Unlike surface-level exams, this advanced imaging technology creates cross-sectional views of your neck that help your provider make a precise diagnosis and design a personalized treatment plan.

When it’s time to get an MRI

You don’t have to live with uncertainty. Some of the signs that it's time to consider scheduling an MRI include:

Long-term pain

Chronic pain is usually defined as persistent discomfort lasting at least three months, but any pain that gets worse over time or shows no signs of improving could indicate it's time for an MRI.

Mobility issues

Neck mobility is something many of us take for granted, but when you can't move your neck normally, even the simplest daily tasks become a challenge. If you're unable to turn your head, nod, or otherwise move your neck without pain, it's worth scheduling an MRI to find out what's going on.

Tingling or numbness

When your pain persists, it's bad enough. But when it radiates into your shoulders or arms, or occurs alongside numbness or tingling, it often points to neurological involvement that an MRI can uncover.

Treatment isn't working

If you've been trying to find solutions for your neck pain for a while, but physical therapy, medication, or other conservative care isn’t bringing relief, an MRI is often the next step in getting a definitive diagnosis and customized treatment plan.

Recent accident or injury

Your doctor may also recommend an MRI if you’ve had a recent injury or accident. An MRI can provide clarity, allowing your care team to see exactly what’s happening inside your body and to create a targeted plan to help you heal.

A comfortable, convenient MRI experience

We understand the frustrations of living with chronic neck pain, and our LA MRI Center team is here to help smooth your path to finding relief.

The clarity of an MRI can be the turning point that helps you and your doctor find a lasting solution. Let’s get you closer to the relief you deserve. Schedule your MRI today by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.