Why an MRI Scan for Knee Pain Might Be Necessary

Why an MRI Scan May Be Necessary for Your Knee Pain

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can be done at the hospital or at a radiology clinic. During the procedure, you will be ask to lie on your back while the MRI scanner creates pictures of your knee using magnetic field and radio waves with no radiation involved. These pictures will clearly show any damage to your meniscus or cartilage, as well as any other abnormalities that may be causing your pain or locking up of your knee joint. Looking at your knee thoroughly will give you a better idea of what’s going on in there. You’ll want to start with your front thigh. Lift up your socke foot and gently press down on your knee. You will feel your meniscus and how it’s shaped to be smooth and elastic.

How does an MRI work?

An MRI scan, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging. Uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your internal organs and tissues. MRIs use electromagnetic fields and pulses of radio wave energy to make images of body structures. During the procedure, you lie in a scanner that contains a strong magnet surrounded by coils. The magnet creates a very strong magnetic field around your body, but doesn’t actually touch you. A computer helps process and interpret information from these signals to create images on a video screen.

Reasons you may need an MRI scan

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure in which radio waves and a magnetic field are assisted by a computer to create remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation. An MRI scan might be necessary if you’re experiencing knee pain that’s interfering with your daily life or when dealing with knee injuries or other health issues related to your knees. With so many conditions that can affect your knees, it helps to know why you might need an MRI scan. Here are some reasons to consider getting one

How long does it take?

Most MRI scans take between 30 minutes and an hour. It’s a good idea to arrive at least 15 minutes early to fill out any paperwork and get settle in before your scan begins. Keep in mind that if you have certain metal objects in your body (such as pacemakers or some types of artificial joints). They might not be detectable by a traditional MRI, so your doctor might recommend a CT scan instead. These types of scans take a little longer—from around 20 to 60 minutes—but are still relatively painless. Sometimes, both tests are done, usually about two weeks apart; it’s just another example of how exacting these imaging tests can be.

What should I do about my earrings?

Our ears are pierce as babies and as children, but when we become adults, our earlobes may have stretched over time. If your earrings no longer fit, or you want to switch out your old studs for something more flashy, consider having your ears repierce by a professional. Keep in mind that if you’re still suffering from pain after getting new piercings, head to Alamogordo MRI. Whether you live in Alamogordo or not, book a consultation with us so we can find out what’s wrong and treat it accordingly!

What will it cost?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure in which radio waves and a magnetic field are assisted by a computer to create remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs. Tissues without the use of radiation. For patients who have osteoarthritis or other forms of arthritis that are causing significant knee pain. It may be necessary to undergo MRI testing in order to get more information about what’s causing their particular symptoms. This can help you decide whether or not more invasive treatments. Such as cortisone injections, might be necessary to relieve your pain long-term. Check with your insurance provider for details about coverage for diagnostic tests like MRI scans.

When should I get an MRI scan?

Not all knee pain requires an MRI scan. If you’re in significant pain or if your knee injury is severe (for example, a torn ligament). It’s important to see a doctor and be evaluate by a professional who can determine whether or not it’s necessary to get a scan. In general, though. If you have persistent (more than six weeks) knee pain that is getting worse rather than better—or especially if you have swelling—you should definitely see your doctor about possibly getting an MRI scan. An examination of your knee may reveal that something else is causing your symptoms—like bone spurs, tendinitis, or arthritis—and that treating those issues will alleviate any pain you are experiencing.

The health benefits of MRIs

There are many ways to diagnose knee pain. One of those is through an MRI scan, also known as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI scan can provide important information about injuries and problems of your knees. Such as: When it comes to knee pain, seeking a specialist opinion is often advise. In addition to revealing information about your knees—such as if there’s a tear in ligaments or tendons or other problems with your joints—an MRI scan can detect any growths in or around your joints that might suggest cancer or other serious conditions. With so much at stake when it comes to health and well-being. It’s no wonder that MRIs have become one of the most popular procedures available today.

Final thoughts on MRIs

If you’re experiencing pain in your knee, MRI scans may be necessary to learn what’s going on. MRIs use radio waves and a magnetic field assisted by a computer to create remarkably clear and detailed pictures of your internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation. If you’re having knee problems, it can be hard to tell if they stem from wear-and-tear or from something more serious like arthritis . Or a tear in your meniscus (cartilage between two bones). However, once doctors are able to see what might be causing your pain via an MRI scan. They can provide more accurate treatment options tailored to your specific needs. Talk with Alamogordo orthopedic surgeon Michael T.