Spinal Diagnostics: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to
create cross-sectional images of your head and body. Your doctor
uses these detailed, clear images to identify and diagnose a
wide range of conditions. It is particularly helpful in
providing details about soft tissues, including the spinal cord,
nerves and the discs between the bones of the spine. Magnetic
resonance imaging can be used to: - Diagnose disorders of the
central nervous system such as multiple sclerosis - Identify
brain or spinal tumors or other chronic disorders of the nervous
system - Diagnose pituitary gland diseases - Find eye or inner
ear tissue abnormalities - Identify bone and joint damage from
injuries, degenerative disorders and tumors - Identify
infections of the bones and joints Before an MRI, it is
important to remove any clothing, wigs, appliances such as
hearing aids or dentures or jewelry that may contain metal or
electronics. If you have metal or electron