Learn about your spine MRI
Short, plain language articles to help you prepare for a visit. Educational only.
How to read your cervical MRI report
A plain language guide to the sections and phrases often found in a neck MRI report.
Common MRI terms explained
Plain language twins for stenosis, herniation, foraminal narrowing, and other spine MRI phrases.
Neck pain red flags: when to go to the ER
Educational list of urgent warning signs with neck pain. Not a personal triage tool.
Questions to ask your spine surgeon
Practical questions to bring to a spine visit, paired with your MRI and symptoms.
Fusion vs. artificial disc replacement, explained
Educational overview of two surgical ideas for selected spine problems. No recommendations.
Lumbar MRI basics
What a lower back MRI looks at, what reports often mention, and how to prepare questions.
Who treats spine problems? A guide to spine specialists
A plain language map of clinicians who may help with neck or back pain, from your family doctor to surgeons and radiologists.
Spine surgeon: neurosurgeon vs orthopedic spine surgeon
How training paths can differ, what they share, and how to prepare questions for either specialist.
Interventional pain treatments explained
Educational overview of injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation. Not a recommendation.
Physiatrist, physical therapist, chiropractor: conservative care roles
How PM&R physicians, physical therapists, and chiropractors often contribute to non surgical spine care.
Why a second opinion before spine surgery matters
A balanced look at when to seek another view, how to ask, and what records to bring, including your SpineLens case file.