Book a lumbar spine MRI
near you
A lumbar spine MRI shows the discs, nerves and joints of the lower back in detail. Learn when it's used, how to prepare and how Medicare referrals work.
Also called: MRI lower back, lumbar MRI, MRI lumbar spine, back MRI, MRI for sciatica
Find a clinic for your lumbar spine MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get a lumbar spine MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI.
Clinics for a lumbar spine MRI on Radly
See all 44 →
What is a lumbar spine MRI?
A lumbar spine MRI takes detailed pictures of the lower back — the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal canal and the nerves leaving it. It is the best test for showing a disc bulge or prolapse pressing on a nerve, and for spinal canal narrowing (stenosis).
You lie on your back on a padded table with your legs supported. Your head is usually near the opening of the scanner, which many people find easier than a brain scan. Contrast is occasionally used, for example after previous spinal surgery.
Why your doctor might request a lumbar spine MRI
- Sciatica or leg pain, numbness or weakness from a suspected nerve compression
- Back pain with red-flag symptoms your doctor wants to investigate
- Suspected spinal stenosis
- Planning for spinal surgery or injections
- Follow-up after previous back surgery
Lumbar spine MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your lumbar spine MRI
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire, including any spinal implants or stimulators
- Let the clinic know if lying flat is painful — they can help with positioning
- Take your usual pain relief before the scan if needed
- Remove jewellery and anything metallic
How long it takes: About 20–40 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Medicare rebates for lumbar spine MRI depend on the referrer and the reason. Specialists such as neurosurgeons, orthopaedic surgeons and some others can request Medicare-eligible spine MRI, while GP access for adults is limited to certain indications. Children under 16 have broader GP options. The scan must also be done on a Medicare-eligible machine. The clinic will confirm whether your referral is Medicare-eligible. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your lumbar spine MRI and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Lumbar spine MRI FAQs
Can a GP refer me for a lower back MRI?
A GP can refer you, but for adults most GP-referred lumbar spine MRI is not Medicare-rebated and would be private. A specialist referral may attract a rebate. The clinic will confirm.
Do I need an MRI for back pain?
Most back pain improves without imaging. MRI is usually reserved for nerve symptoms, red-flag signs or when surgery or injections are being considered. Talk with your doctor.
Is a CT scan or MRI better for the lower back?
MRI shows discs and nerves best and has no radiation. CT is quicker, shows bone well and is an option if you can't have MRI.
How do I book a lumbar spine MRI online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select MRI as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get a lumbar spine MRI?
Appointments for MRI are usually 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
Related scans
Helpful guides
Ready to book your lumbar spine MRI?
Compare clinics near you and send a booking request in minutes.
Find a clinic