MRI Specialist

MRI Q & A

What is magnetic resonance imaging?

MRI is a noninvasive diagnostic study that uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to create high-definition, 3D pictures of structures within your body. Unlike X-rays, which only highlight bone, an MRI study provides accurate images of bones as well as muscles, tendons, and other soft tissue structures surrounding and supporting your skeletal system.

These detailed images can identify ligament tears, cartilage issues within a joint, and other painful conditions affecting your mobility and overall health. Your Orthopedic Specialists provider uses the information gathered from an MRI to create an effective treatment plan that’s tailored to fit your needs and designed to get you moving pain-free again.

What orthopedic conditions can be identified with MRI?

Your doctor at Orthopedic Specialists may recommend an MRI to help identify:

• Joint damage that may include torn cartilage, ligaments, or tendons
• Herniated discs and other spinal issues
• Inflamed or compressed nerves
• Bone infection
• Muscle and bone tumors

An MRI is also valuable for identifying suspected occult or hidden fractures that aren’t seen on an X-ray, including hip, pelvic, and wrist fractures that are sometimes hard to spot.

What is an MRI with contrast or arthrogram?

An MRI with an arthrogram means that you will receive an injection of contrast dye into the joint being studied using x-ray guidance just before the MRI is performed.  The dye enhances the view of the targeted area and highlights even small tears or other abnormalities not visible on an MRI without contrast. This is especially beneficial when assessing intricate structures of the joints.

What is it like to have an MRI?

Before scheduling an MRI procedure, your doctor discusses the test in detail and provides information about what you can expect before, during, and after the study. In general, however, an MRI is an essentially painless study that takes about 30 minutes to complete. If your provider has recommended MRI with contrast or arthrogram, you may experience some pinching and burning with the injection that generally lasts for just a minute or two.

For stellar orthopedic care that’s provided by board-certified and fellowship-trained physicians, and delivered in a friendly and welcoming environment, call Orthopedic Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.