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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Xray or MRI
This forum is for questions and support regarding neurology issues such as: Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, Autism, Brain Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain, Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, MS, Neuralgia, Neuropathy, Parkinson's Disease, RSD, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury
Xray or MRI
by yedwyn, Nov 23, 2004 12:00AM
I have posted previously asking about twitching after a virus, etc. I have also mentioned that using an EMG, my neuro diagnosed cervical radiculitis, stating my "problem" was c5,c6. Before I had the MRI on my cervical spine, my rheum. took a series of "neck bend xrays" to see why I can't turn my head all the way to the right. Looking at the xrays, even I could see that c5 looked to be sitting right on top of c6 with very little disk space. I also have no curve to my neck. However, I had my MRI after this appt and it was read as "normal." Now I am entirely confused. Does an MRI always trump xrays? Are there other, more definitive tests or imaging that can be done on my spine or does this throw it back to my neuro for a different diagnosis? Which specialist should be helping me with this problem? Any advice would be appreciated. Thank you.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Nov 28, 2004 12:00AM
The MRI is superior to a plain X-ray when looking at the soft tissue structures such as the nerves and spinal cord. The X-ray with flexion and extension helps to determine if the alignment of the spine changes with movement. The tests can be used on a complimentary fashion. I would recommend asking your neurologist if they have been able to review your MRI. If they believe the MRI was of good quality and is normal then another disorder may need to be considered. Good luck.
