MRI Scan Guide
Overview
A shoulder MRI provides highly detailed images of the rotator cuff, labrum, cartilage, tendons, ligaments, and bones of the shoulder joint. It is the most reliable non-invasive method for diagnosing shoulder injuries.
Shoulder MRI is commonly ordered for persistent pain, weakness, limited range of motion, and suspected rotator cuff or labral tears. It is also used to evaluate impingement, instability, and arthritis, and to plan or assess the results of surgical repair.
The scan is painless, uses no radiation, and requires no recovery time.
The procedure
You lie on your back on the scanner table with your arm at your side or in a specific position depending on the clinical question. A surface coil is placed over the shoulder to capture the signal. The table slides into the scanner, and multiple image sequences are acquired over approximately 30 to 45 minutes. Each sequence is optimized to show different tissues such as tendons, cartilage, or fluid.
Diagnostic value
Preparation
No fasting is required.
Wear a loose-fitting top without metal fastenings.
Remove all jewellery, watches, and metal accessories.
Inform the radiographer about any shoulder hardware, screws, or implants.
If you have significant shoulder pain, discuss positioning with the clinic beforehand.
Both MRI and ultrasound can evaluate the rotator cuff. Ultrasound is faster and less expensive but is highly operator-dependent and limited in its ability to assess the labrum, bones, and deeper structures. MRI provides a comprehensive view of all shoulder structures and is considered the standard for pre-surgical evaluation. Your clinician will recommend the appropriate modality based on your symptoms.
An MRI arthrogram involves injecting contrast directly into the shoulder joint before the scan. This distends the joint capsule, improving visualization of the labrum, ligaments, and cartilage surfaces. It is particularly useful for detecting labral tears and assessing shoulder instability. The injection is performed under fluoroscopic or ultrasound guidance before the MRI scan.
Understanding your results
Every Mira scan comes with two reports. A medical report from a radiologist for your doctor, and a miraclarity report for you. The miraclarity report explains your shoulder MRI findings in straightforward language with visual guides, severity indicators, and recommended next steps.
No jargon. No waiting for another appointment just to understand what your scan found. miraclarity is included free with every scan.
Book your scan
Yes. MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing rotator cuff tears. It can identify partial tears, full-thickness tears, and tendon retraction.
A typical shoulder MRI takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Usually not. For most shoulder MRI protocols, your arm rests comfortably at your side. In rare cases, specific positions may be requested.
Yes. MRI can show thickening of the joint capsule and surrounding inflammation associated with adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder).
A knee MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the knee joint. Unlike X-rays, which show only bones, MRI reveals soft tissues including ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and the meniscus. This makes it the primary diagnostic tool for knee injuries and conditions.
A brain MRI produces highly detailed images of the brain, brainstem, and surrounding structures. It is the preferred imaging method for evaluating neurological symptoms because it provides superior soft tissue contrast compared to CT and does not use ionizing radiation.
A lumbar spine MRI produces detailed images of the lower back, including the vertebrae, intervertebral discs, spinal cord, nerve roots, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most accurate non-invasive method for diagnosing causes of lower back pain.
A hip MRI produces detailed images of the hip joint, including the femoral head, acetabulum, labrum, cartilage, tendons, muscles, and surrounding soft tissues. It is the most comprehensive imaging method for evaluating hip pathology.
Choose a location and book online in minutes.