How a 3T MRI Can Help Your Santa Fe Shoulder Injury

A shoulder MRI can help diagnose various shoulder injuries, including labral tears and rotator cuff tears. While not all shoulder injuries need surgery, if you are suffering from shoulder pain or suspect that you may have an injury, you may want to consider scheduling an appointment with our orthopedic team at Pet Scan farmington Orthopedics & Sports Medicine Center in Santa Fe, NM today. We offer xranm services at our state-of-the-art facility in the heart of New Mexico’s Historic District that are capable of producing detailed and accurate images of your muscles, tendons, and bones.

What is an MRI?

An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a type of scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. Unlike other imaging tests, an MRI does not use ionizing radiation, which means it is safe for most people to have. Pet Scan farmington are often used to diagnose problems with the brain, spine, soft tissue, and joints. In some cases, an MRI can be used to treat certain conditions. For example, magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) is a type of MRI that can be used to diagnose shoulder problems. ultrasound-guided MRIs are sometimes used to treat rotator cuff tears.

What are some common uses for an MRI?

An MRI can be used to diagnose or rule out conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, bursitis, and tendonitis. It can also be used to evaluate the results of shoulder surgery. An MRI can also be used to assess the health of the bones and joints in the shoulder. Magnetic resonance arthrography (MRA) is a type of MRI that is used to evaluate the structures around the shoulder joint, including the rotator cuff, ligaments, and tendons.

Will I experience pain during my exam?

No. You will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. A device called an RF coil may be placed around the area being imaged. The machine will make loud thumping and humming noises during the exam. You will be able to hear these noises, but they will not hurt you. You may be given earplugs or headphones to help block out the noise. The exam will last 30 to 60 minutes.

What will it feel like during my exam?

During your exam, you will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. You will need to hold very still during the exam so that the images are clear. You may be asked to hold your breath for short periods of time. An intercom system will allow you to communicate with the technologist at any time during the exam. The test is painless, but you may feel a bit claustrophobic due to the close quarters inside the machine. If this is the case, let your technologist know and they can give you a mild sedative to help you relax.

What are some pre-MRI tips to help me get ready?

MRI Treated rotator cuff tear, MRI for the shoulder, MRI Treated with ultrasound

Are there any risks associated with an MRI?

No, there are no risks associated with an MRI. In fact, an MRI can actually help diagnose and treat rotator cuff tears, as well as other shoulder injuries. Additionally, MRI treated with ultrasound can help improve the quality of images and reduce the risk of side effects.

What should I expect after my exam?

Most people undergoing MRI for the shoulder will have no adverse effects from the procedure. However, some people may feel dizzy, have an upset stomach or feel claustrophobic during the exam. If you are pregnant, you should not have an MRI. The strong magnetic field may be harmful to the fetus. People with implanted metal devices such as pacemakers, artificial heart valves or metal clips on blood vessels should not have an MRI because of the risk of movement of the metal.

Are MRIs recommended for everyone?

No, MRIs are not recommended for everyone. They are usually only recommended for people who have had an injury or who are experiencing pain. MRIs can help diagnose problems like rotator cuff tears, but they can also cause problems like anxiety and claustrophobia. If you are considering having an MRI, talk to your doctor first to see if it is right for you.

What if I’m claustrophobic or suffer from anxiety or panic attacks?

If you have claustrophobia, anxiety, or panic attacks, you may be wondering if an MRI is right for you. Luckily, there are options available that can help make the experience more comfortable. For example, you can ask for a larger MRI machine or take medication to help relax before the procedure. If you have any concerns, be sure to discuss them with your doctor beforehand.

Is there anything I should eat before my test?

You should eat normally before your MRI. You may be asked to drink clear fluids such as water or fruit juice to help fill your bladder before the exam. This is because a full bladder helps push the intestines out of the way, making it easier to get clear images of the pelvic region. You may also be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything for several hours before your MRI if contrast material will be used during your exam.

Will food and beverages affect my test results?

No. You may eat and drink before and after the test. MRI uses radio waves, not X-rays, so there is no radiation exposure.

If I have metal in my body, can it damage the magnets of the MRI machine during my exam? (Some examples of metal include artificial joints, implanted medical devices such as pace makers and shrapnel from accidents.)

MRI Treated rotator cuff tear

No, you will not damage the MRI machine with metal in your body. The MRI machine uses a very strong magnet, so any metal in your body will be pulled towards the magnet. This can actually be helpful in some cases, as it can help the radiologist get a better view of the area that is being imaged.