Lumbar MRI basics

6 min read Reviewed by Dr. XYZ (pending)

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

What a lumbar MRI shows

A lumbar MRI focuses on the lower back. It can show discs, nerves, the spinal canal, and soft tissues. Your clinician chooses MRI when the story and exam suggest it may change care.

Where the lumbar spine sits among spine regions

Levels and labels

You will see labels like L4 to L5. Those mark motion segments in the lower spine. Findings at one level may or may not match where you feel symptoms.

Frequent phrases

You may read about disc bulge (disc pushing slightly outward), stenosis (narrowing), or facet arthropathy (wear in the small joints of the spine). Ask which ones matter for your pain, numbness, or walking.

Single slice vs full study

One image cannot replace a complete study. Educational tools that look at a single slice are for learning and visit prep only.

Bring your story

Share how long symptoms have lasted, what makes them better or worse, and any red flags. Pair that story with the images at your visit.