Lumbar Spine MRI

MRI of the lumbar spine (lower back) assessing disc pathology, spinal canal dimensions, facet joints, and nerve root compression. The most commonly requested spinal MRI for investigating lower back and sciatica symptoms.

Lumbar spine MRI is the single most frequently performed spinal imaging examination worldwide, reflecting the prevalence of lower back pain across all age groups. At MRI Diagnostyka, the scan covers the five lumbar vertebrae, the lumbosacral junction, intervertebral discs, the cauda equina, exiting nerve roots, and paraspinal soft tissues. The Siemens 1.5T scanner produces detailed sagittal, axial, and coronal images that allow the radiologist to identify disc bulges, protrusions, extrusions, and sequestered fragments, as well as spinal canal and foraminal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, facet joint hypertrophy, and Modic-type endplate changes. For patients with sciatica -- radiating leg pain following the path of the sciatic nerve -- lumbar MRI can localise the level and side of nerve root compression, which directly informs conservative management or surgical planning. The scan is equally valuable for investigating chronic lower back pain without leg radiation, where imaging may reveal degenerative disc disease, annular tears, or sacroiliitis. The non-contrast protocol takes approximately 25 minutes and requires no referral. At 550 PLN (roughly EUR 128), MRI Diagnostyka offers this investigation at a fraction of the cost charged by private facilities in Western Europe, where lumbar spine MRI typically ranges from EUR 350 to EUR 800. The centre's location near Stare Bielany Metro station in Warsaw's Bielany district provides easy access from across the city. Reports are prepared by specialist radiologists within 15 business days.