8 signs that you need an MRI

Most patients with back pain can be treated effectively with activity limitation, medications and therapy.  Some require more investigation.  Here are 8 signs that your doctor should order an MRI to see what’s going on under the pain.

• It’s been more than 6 weeks and you are still in significant back pain
• You have very severe nerve pain radiating down your arm or leg
• Pain is getting worse, instead of getting better or remaining the same
• Your pain level is severe enough that you cannot perform normal activities
• You have clumsiness or weakness of the hand, arm, leg or foot
• You have difficulty walking, like unsteadiness
• You have lost significant weight since your pain started, without trying
• Your back pain has been associated with fevers and chills