I've had several MRIs done. They pipe music in and ask what my favorite station is. However, the machine is so loud that you can't really hear the music. They try to make you as comfortable as possible on the table by adding extra pillows where needed. As for reading, it's not possible. The machine is too close to your face. you wouldn't be able to turn the page anyway. The open MRI machines are better but not much. They're only partially open on the side.
As for spine issues, look for a pain management specialist. I've been seeing one for over 10 years and it's been a life saver. My doctor uses chiropractic maneuvers, injections, physical therapy and tons of pain medications for treatment. He's also taught me how to do everyday tasks differently as well as taught me exercises. I had surgery 10 years ago which I regretted and I have refused any more. Unfortunately, I didn't have much choice at the time. I'm still waiting on technology to catch up and I hope to have my spine (and previous surgery) redone. I've heard that the artificial disks that they're using now are much better than spinal fusion which is what I had done. Fusion causes more disks to herniate and, therefore, more surgeries.