Scan Types / MRI Whole Spine Scan
MRI Whole Spine Scan
A whole spine MRI provides comprehensive imaging of the entire spinal column — including the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), and lumbar (lower back) regions. This scan is essential for assessing full-length spinal disorders, widespread nerve symptoms, or systemic neurological conditions.
What is an MRI whole spine scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to produce high-resolution, cross-sectional images of internal structures — without radiation.
A whole spine MRI covers:
- Cervical spine (C1–C7)
- Thoracic spine (T1–T12)
- Lumbar spine (L1–L5)
- Spinal cord, nerve roots, intervertebral discs, and vertebrae
- Alignment, joint integrity, marrow changes, and soft tissues
This scan is ideal when symptoms involve multiple spinal levels , or where neurological or systemic disease may affect the entire spinal cord.
Why consider a private whole spine MRI scan?
Whole spine MRI is a valuable tool when symptoms are unclear, widespread, or affecting multiple parts of the spine. It’s often requested for screening of serious or progressive neurological conditions.
Private scan benefits include:
- Comprehensive diagnosis in a single appointment
- Early detection of nerve compression, inflammation, or systemic disease
- Rapid appointments and detailed reporting
- No radiation exposure
Symptoms that may warrant a whole spine MRI
You may need a whole spine MRI if experiencing:
- Neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, tingling) affecting multiple regions
- Radiating pain from neck and/or back to limbs
- Suspected spinal cord lesions or multiple sclerosis
- History of trauma with widespread symptoms
- Spinal tumors, metastasis, or systemic conditions (e.g. lymphoma)
- Monitoring of inflammatory spine disorders like ankylosing spondylitis
What can a whole spine MRI detect?
This scan provides detailed information to detect:
- Disc herniations or spinal stenosis across multiple levels
- Spinal cord compression or signal changes
- Vertebral fractures or alignment issues
- Tumors, metastases, or cysts
- Infections such as spondylodiscitis
- Multiple sclerosis plaques
- Inflammatory or autoimmune disorders
Preparing for your whole spine MRI
Preparation instructions:
- Wear loose-fitting, metal-free clothing
- Inform the team about previous spine surgeries or implants
- Eat, drink, and take medications as normal
- Bring any past imaging or neurological test results
Please notify the team if you have:
- You have a spinal implant, stimulator, or metal rods
- You wear a pacemaker
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- You experience anxiety or claustrophobia
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Pricing for a private whole spine MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
Standard MRI
Full scan of cervical, thoracic, lumbar spine
£645
With Contrast
Includes Gadolinium contrast if required
£845
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
FAQs
Got a question? Check below to find the answer.
We’re an independent diagnostic centre in Dartford offering same-day private MRI with UK-consultant reporting and transparent self-pay pricing.
No-self-referral is welcome. If you already have a referral letter, upload it at checkout.
Prices start at £150 for single-area Off-Peak scans. Your fee covers the scan, double-reading, and unlimited portal access.
Many insurers reimburse private MRI. We provide the codes and receipts you need to claim.
Call 01322 - MRI - NOW, start a live chat, or email hello@myscanhub.co.uk.