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What does a normal MRI result mean?
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan provides detailed images of the bones and soft tissues, such as muscles, discs, and nerves. A normal MRI result means that no signs of serious injury, inflammation, or other disease have been found. However, this does not mean that your pain is imagined or less real.
Common causes of low back pain with a normal MRI
Sometimes, an MRI result appears normal even though the patient reports persistent pain in the lower back. This can be due to several reasons — here are some of the most common ones.
Muscle tension
Repetitive movements, prolonged sitting, and overuse can cause muscle tension that does not appear on an MRI. Tense muscles can lead to dull or sharp pain and a feeling of fatigue in the back.
Joint stiffness and reduced mobility
The spine contains small joints, such as those between the vertebrae and where the spine meets the pelvis. These joints can become stiff and cause pain even when the MRI shows no abnormalities. The stiffness itself can limit spinal movement, which in turn can affect muscles and posture.
Functional problems
Sometimes pain arises when muscles and joints do not work together optimally. Low back pain can be caused by weak core muscles, incorrect lifting techniques, or altered movement patterns following an earlier injury. These types of functional issues often do not appear on an MRI scan.
Psychosocial factors
Most back pain has physical origins, but factors such as stress, lack of sleep, anxiety, or other mental strain can also influence the body’s pain system. Chronic pain can make the nervous system more sensitive, meaning that even minor signals are perceived as pain. This does not mean the pain is psychological — it highlights the close connection between body and mind.
What should I do now?
If you have low back pain but a normal MRI, there is usually no reason to worry about a serious condition. Most people improve within a few weeks — but that does not mean you should simply endure the pain. Both self-care and the right type of professional support can make a big difference.
Self-care and movement
- Go for walks or do light exercise daily.
- Avoid sitting still for long periods; change position often.
- Strengthen your core and back muscles with simple exercises.
- Try relaxation techniques, stretching, or heat for tense muscles.
- Manage stress – for example, with breathing exercises or mindfulness.
Contact the right healthcare provider
If the pain does not improve or interferes with your daily life, you can contact different healthcare professionals. A physiotherapist or manual therapist can assess your mobility, posture, and movement patterns and provide manual treatment or tailored exercises. A general practitioner can make an overall assessment and refer you for further evaluation if needed. The key is to focus treatment on restoring function and movement — not only on pain relief.
Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Problems controlling your bladder or bowels.
- Numbness, weakness, or pain radiating down the leg.
- Fever or unexplained weight loss.
- Sudden, severe pain that does not subside.