MRI Cervical Spine
Detailed MRI of the cervical spine for neck pain, arm radiculopathy, disc disease, and post-injury work-up.
Find MRI Cervical Spine near you
What a mri cervical spine shows
- Cervical disc herniation, bulge, and degeneration
- Spinal canal and foraminal stenosis
- Cervical nerve root impingement and radiculopathy
- Spinal cord compression and myelomalacia
- Post-traumatic ligamentous injury
- Tumor, infection, and post-surgical changes
Why your physician orders it
- Neck pain that hasn't improved after 4–6 weeks of conservative care
- Pain, numbness, or weakness radiating into the shoulder, arm, or hand
- Post-injury evaluation after a motor-vehicle collision or fall
- Suspected disc herniation or pinched nerve
- Post-surgical follow-up of fusion or discectomy
Contrast notes
Most musculoskeletal MRI is performed without contrast. Gadolinium is reserved for select indications — post-operative scar vs. recurrent disc, suspected infection or tumor, or arthrographic protocols. Your ordering physician and our radiologist will confirm contrast use before the exam, and kidney function is screened first when contrast is planned.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–60 minutes at the imaging center. You'll change into a gown and remove all metal. A technologist positions you on the table with the coil over the area being imaged; the table then slides into the magnet.
MRI is loud — you'll wear ear protection and can listen to music or talk to the technologist through the intercom at any time. Holding still for each sequence (typically 2–5 minutes each) produces the sharpest images.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary cervical spine MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Cervical Spine
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri cervical spine location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a cervical spine MRI take?
Plan for 30–45 minutes in the scanner. Total time at the imaging center is typically under an hour.
Will I need contrast?
Most cervical spine MRIs are non-contrast. Gadolinium is added for post-operative imaging, suspected infection, or tumor work-up.
Can I move during the exam?
Holding still is important for sharp images — even small movements blur the sequence. You can talk to the technologist between sequences and request a break if needed.
What's the difference between cervical, thoracic, and lumbar MRI?
Each exam images a different region of the spine. Most physicians order the level matching the symptoms; full-spine imaging is reserved for diffuse pain, suspected multi-level disease, or screening conditions like MS.
Do I need a referral?
Yes, most insurance plans require a physician referral and prior authorization. Our team handles authorization on your behalf.
How much does a cervical spine MRI cost?
Insured patients usually owe their plan's copay or coinsurance. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.
How soon will I get my results?
Preliminary findings are typically available within a few hours; the signed final report is delivered to your ordering physician the same business day.