Doctor advised Whole Spine MRI instead of Lumbar MRI — is that normal for sciatica?

Hi everyone,

I’m a 21M dealing with what seems like sciatica-type symptoms and I’m a bit confused about the imaging advice I received.

My symptoms:

- Started as lower back pain (around L5–S1 area)

- Now mainly pain in right hip and upper leg

- Slight discomfort/weakness feeling below the knee

- Pain increases when coughing or sneezing

- Difficulty walking properly due to right leg discomfort

- No bowel/bladder issues, no numbness in groin, no upper body symptoms

I consulted an orthopedic spine specialist.

After physical examination, he asked me to get a Whole Spine MRI, not just a Lumbosacral (LS) MRI.

From what I’ve read, most sciatica/disc cases usually start with an LS spine MRI, and whole spine MRI is typically for things like suspected infection, tumor, deformity, or neurological conditions affecting multiple levels, none of which he mentioned to me.

So I’m confused:

Is whole spine MRI standard practice in a case like mine?

Could there be a clinical reason I’m unaware of?

Or should I start with LS MRI and expand only if needed?

I’m not doubting the doctor’s competence, just trying to understand the rationale before spending a lot more money and time in the scanner.

Would appreciate insights from doctors, physios, or anyone who’s gone through similar symptoms.

Thanks!