How Are Herniated or Bulging Discs in the Back Diagnosed Through Imaging?

Up to 80% of people in the U.S. experience lower back pain at some point in their lives. But not all back pain is the same. If you’re experiencing severe pain in your back, including numbness that extends down your leg or arm, you may have a herniated disc. American Health Imaging (AHI) can determine the source of your back pain, helping your healthcare provider reach a diagnosis of a herniated or bulging disc.

Can an MRI Tell Me If I Have a Herniated Disc?

A herniated disc—also called a bulging, slipped or ruptured disc—happens when the cushion, or disc, that protects vertebrae in the spine from grinding against each other moves out of place. This can happen as a result of injury, obesity or simply age, and it most often happens in the lower back, lumbar spine or the neck. A spinal MRI at AHI can help confirm whether or not your back pain is caused by a herniated disc.

An MRI is the most common imaging tool used in the diagnosis of herniated discs. At AHI, we offer the most advanced MRI technologies available, and our expert staff knows exactly what to look for when we examine the imaging of your spine.

Is Disc Herniation Permanent?

Strength training can help rehabilitate a herniated disc, prevent future injury and establish techniques to stave age-related degeneration. Some herniated discs will require surgery, which is why getting accurate imaging is important for the herniated disc diagnosis.

Can a CT Scan Show a Herniated Disc?

If you cannot have an MRI because of metal implants in your body or another reason, a CT scan at AHI can also be used to diagnose your herniated disc.

Experiencing back pain and think you may have a herniated disc? Speak with your doctor about a referral for a spinal MRI at AHI.