Chronic Back Pain That Won’t Go Away? Neck Pain Radiating to the Arm

or Lower Back Pain Shooting Down the Leg?

It May Be Time for an MRI

Many people start with what seems like a simple muscle ache…

Neck pain after waking up

Back pain after long working hours

Pain radiating down the leg while walking or standing

Some begin experiencing numbness in the arm, weak grip strength,

or dropping objects more often

At first, the symptoms may temporarily improve with painkillers, massage, physiotherapy, or rest. Many people assume it is “just muscle pain” and hope it will go away on its own.

But over time, the symptoms may become worse…

Sitting for long periods becomes difficult

Walking long distances becomes painful

Pain radiates down the arm or leg like an electric shock

Weakness develops

Balance problems begin

Some patients even experience bladder control issues

These symptoms may no longer be simple muscle tension or office syndrome. They could be related to nerve compression, spinal cord compression, or a herniated disc.

When Should You Consider an MRI?

If you have persistent symptoms or they begin affecting your daily life, an MRI may be necessary.

Common symptoms include:

• Lower back pain radiating down the leg

• Neck pain radiating to the arm

• Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs

• Difficulty walking steadily

• Chronic back pain that does not improve

• Bladder control problems associated with back pain

• Suspected herniated disc

• Suspected spinal stenosis

• Symptoms after an accident or injury

• No improvement despite conventional treatment

What Causes These Symptoms?

What Causes These Symptoms?

Many everyday habits can gradually damage the spine and nerves without you realizing it, such as:

• Sitting for long hours

• Poor posture while using phones or computers

• Improper heavy lifting

• Long-distance driving

• Excess body weight

• Lack of exercise

• Ignoring chronic inflammation or pain

For some people, symptoms may worsen naturally with age, especially if underlying spinal degeneration already exists.

What Should You Do?

In the early stages, it is recommended to:

✔️ Avoid excessive bending or heavy lifting

✔️ Reduce prolonged sitting

✔️ Improve posture while sitting and sleeping

✔️ Perform light core-strengthening exercises

✔️ Maintain a healthy weight

✔️ Consult a doctor if symptoms persist

However, if symptoms continue or you develop numbness, weakness, or radiating pain, an MRI may be crucial to identify the real cause.

Why Is MRI Important?

Why Is MRI Important?

MRI allows doctors to clearly evaluate:

• Nerves

• Intervertebral discs

• Spinal cord

• Areas of nerve compression

These structures cannot be properly visualized with regular X-rays.

In many cases, a very small area of compression may be the true source of years of chronic pain.

Is MRI the Same Everywhere?

Is MRI the Same Everywhere?

Modern MRI machines are generally built to similar standards.

However, the most important factor is not only the machine itself —

it is “who interprets the MRI.”

Some spinal conditions require experienced specialists to detect subtle abnormalities that may easily be overlooked. Missing these details could lead to ongoing pain, unnecessary treatment, and wasted expenses.

At Chularat 3 International Hospital, MRI is currently available at a special price starting from 7,900 THB per area.

More importantly, the MRI results are evaluated by spine and nerve specialists who can help identify the true source of pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan for each patient.

Because not all back pain is the same.