Dr Vishal Kundnani

When Does Back Pain Need an MRI? Not every episode of back pain requires an MRI. Most simple back pain improves with rest, medications, physiotherapy and activity modification within a few weeks. However, an MRI may be recommended if pain persists beyond 4–6 weeks, radiates down the leg (sciatica), is associated with numbness or weakness, follows an injury, or is accompanied by fever, weight loss or bladder/bowel symptoms. An MRI helps diagnose conditions such as slip disc, spinal stenosis, nerve compression, spinal infections and spinal tumours, allowing the right treatment to begin at the right time. Early consultation with a Spine Specialist can help determine whether an MRI is truly necessary and avoid unnecessary investigations. Jul 11, 2026