If you’ve been experiencing pain for some time, you’ve likely been to see your GP or another health professional. After ruling out any serious causes, they may have suggested that the pain is due to a musculoskeletal (MSK) disorder.
These are common conditions that affect the muscles, joints, and tendons. However, the exact cause of MSK disorders is often difficult to diagnose. That’s where MRI comes in.
MRI is an imaging technique that can provide detailed images of the inside of the body. This means that it can be used to identify the underlying cause of MSK disorders.
Keep reading to learn more about MSK MRI and how it can help discover the underlying causes of your pain.
How does an MRI work?
An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a medical imaging technique that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. The machine uses strong magnetic fields to align the nuclei of atoms in the body and then passes radio waves through the body to knock the nuclei out of alignment.
The machine then records how long it takes for the nuclei to realign, which produces detailed images of the body. MRI scans are painless and non-invasive.
What areas can we scan?
Here at MSK Doctors, we can use our MRI scanner for these joints:
- Full spinal (Lumbar, Thoracic and Cervical)
- Foot
- Ankle
- Knee
- Hip
- Shoulder
- Wrist
- Elbow
Ligament tears
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool that can be used to detect tears in the ligaments of the knee. This type of injury is often difficult to diagnose using other methods, such as X-rays or CT scans. MRI is able to provide a clear image of the knee joint, making it an invaluable tool for diagnosing this type of injury.
If you suspect that you have a ligament tear, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible. MRI can be used to confirm the diagnosis and help develop a treatment plan.
Fractures
If you have suffered a fall or other trauma, your doctor may order an MRI to check for fractures. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body.
MRI is the best way to detect fractures, as it can show even small breaks in the bone. X-rays and CT scans can also be used to detect fractures, but MRI is more sensitive.
The MRI machine is large and noisy, but you will be able to hear music through headphones during the scan. The scan usually takes 30-60 minutes.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by the deterioration of the cartilage between the joints, which can lead to pain, stiffness, and inflammation.
While there are many treatments available for osteoarthritis, finding early diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. That's why researchers are looking into using MRI to discover osteoarthritis.
MRI is already being used to diagnose osteoarthritis in the knees, and the results are promising. Researchers believe that MRI may also be able to diagnose osteoarthritis in other joints, such as the hips and shoulders.
Spinal deformities
MRI usage has been on the rise in recent years as a means of discovering spinal deformities. A deformity is defined as a malformation or abnormality, usually of the skeletal system. They are usually congenital, meaning they are present at birth.
There are many different types of spinal deformities, ranging from mild to severe. The most common deformities include scoliosis, kyphosis, and lordosis. Scoliosis is a sideways curvature of the spine, kyphosis is an outward curvature of the spine, and lordosis is an inward curvature of the spine.
MRI is an invaluable tool for diagnosing these deformities. It allows doctors to get a clear image of the spine without having to perform invasive surgeries. This means that more patients can be treated and that treatment can be started sooner.
Tumours
Over the past few years, MRI technology has advanced to the point where it can be used to discover tumours in the body. This is a breakthrough in the medical field, as MRI can detect tumours that are much smaller than those that can be detected by other methods, such as X-ray.
MRI is also unique in that it can provide detailed images of the inside of the body without the use of radiation. This makes it a safe and effective method for diagnosing cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer, you may want to ask your doctor if MRI is an option for you.
If you suffer from chronic pain, an MRI may be the best way to discover the underlying cause. An MRI can provide clearer images than other types of scans, and it doesn't require exposure to radiation. Best of all, you don't have to wait weeks or even months to get an MRI.