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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an established role in the assessment of degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. However, conventional supine MRI findings often correlate poorly with clinical findings. Some patients experience accentuated back pain in the weight-bearing position. Therefore, supine MRI may underestimate the severity of degenerative spine findings. To try and improve the clinical validity of spine imaging, axial loading devices have been used with conventional supine MR imaging to simulate loading of the upright spine. More recently, upright weight-bearing MRI systems (0.25-0.6 T) were introduced, allowing images to be obtained in the standing or seated weight-bearing position and even during upright flexion or extension, rotation, or bending. Some scanners even enable capturing of real-time spinal movement. This review addresses the technical aspects and potential challenges of weight-bearing MRI, both in clinical practice and research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cervical spine is subject to the effect of gravity in the upright position. Weight-bearing upright magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) potentially allows a better diagnosis and evaluation of cervical spine pathology that may be masked or not fully appreciated in the usual non-weight-bearing supine position. Only limited studies are currently available in this area. This article summarizes the current literature on weight-bearing MRI of the cervical spine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]