Common MRI terms explained

7 min read Reviewed by Dr. XYZ (pending)

Educational only. This is not personal medical advice. A physician must review your own MRI and symptoms.

Why reports sound technical

Radiologists use precise words so other clinicians share the same meaning. Patients deserve the same clarity in everyday language.

Spine regions for context while learning MRI terms

Stenosis and foraminal narrowing

Stenosis (narrowing) can describe the central canal or the side openings. Foraminal narrowing (a tighter exit for the nerve) is about those side openings. The report may say mild, moderate, or severe. That grade is about appearance on the image, not a personal treatment plan.

Disc bulge and disc herniation

A disc bulge (disc pushing slightly outward) is often broad. A disc herniation (disc material pushing out of place) is more focal. Either can be present with little or no pain, or with nerve related symptoms. Only your clinician can relate the image to how you feel.

Cord and nerve phrases

Cord compression (pressure on the spinal cord) and radiculopathy (nerve root irritation) are clinical ideas that may be discussed alongside imaging. The image alone does not confirm how you feel day to day.

How SpineLens helps

When you try an educational summary, radiology terms appear with plain language twins, such as osteophytes (bone spurs). Use that as a conversation aid, not a diagnosis.