MRI lumbosacral spine with whole spine screening is a non-invasive MRI exam that images the lumbar and sacral spine while surveying the entire spinal axis for additional abnormalities. It identifies disc herniation, nerve-root compression, spinal stenosis, infection, inflammation, or metastatic lesions. Performed with or without contrast, it helps diagnose and guide treatment for persistent back pain, radiculopathy, trauma, or suspected systemic spinal disease.

Lumbar spine MRI shows disc degeneration or herniation, disc bulges, spinal canal or foraminal stenosis, nerve‑root compression, vertebral fractures, infection, tumors, bone‑marrow (Modic) changes and post‑operative or inflammatory changes. Pelvis/hip MRI reveals labral tears, cartilage loss or osteoarthritis, femoroacetabular impingement, avascular necrosis, occult fractures, bone‑marrow edema, synovitis, bursitis, tendinopathy, muscle injuries and soft‑tissue masses.

Not usually. A standard lumbar MRI focuses on the lumbar spine and nearby soft tissues and often does not fully include the deep gluteal region where the piriformis lies. To visualize the piriformis muscle and its relationship to the sciatic nerve, targeted imaging—pelvic or hip MRI, MR neurography, or specific extended field‑of‑view sequences—is preferred, combined with clinical assessment.

Costs vary by country and facility. In India a lumbosacral MRI typically runs about ₹2,000–₹8,000. In the UK it’s free on the NHS but private scans cost roughly £200–£700. In the US the billed price ranges widely, commonly about $400–$3,000; contrast scans cost more. Final out‑of‑pocket depends on facility type, contrast use and insurance coverage.

A full-spine MRI cost varies widely by country and facility. In the U.S. self-pay prices commonly range from about $400 to $3,000+ (typical $1,000–2,000). In the U.K. it’s free on the NHS; private scans often cost £150–£700. In India costs are roughly ₹2,000–₹12,000. Final price depends on contrast use, facility type, and local pricing.

MRI spine lumbar and sacral is a magnetic imaging test of the lower back that visualizes the lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum. It shows bones, intervertebral discs, the spinal canal and nerve roots to detect disc herniation, degeneration, spinal stenosis, fractures, infection, inflammation or tumors. It’s non‑invasive and uses magnetic fields rather than ionizing radiation.