What Can an MRI Identify About My Joints?

Advanced imaging techniques, like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the state-of-the-art Hitachi Airis II open MRI machine, offer deep insights into the root cause of joint pain and guide effective treatment options. Learn more here.

Joint problems are one of the most common reasons for doctor visits today. More than 240 million people worldwide have osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease. Many other problems like tendon and ligament damage can affect your joints as well, causing potentially debilitating pain.

At LA MRI Center Inc. in Los Angeles, California, we use state-of-the-art imaging technology to provide clear answers about your joint health. Our Hitachi Airis II open MRI is a best-in-class machine. It offers both comfort and precision, as patients aren’t enclosed in a traditional MRI tube during imaging.

If you’re experiencing joint pain or discomfort, an MRI could be the first step to finding relief. Let’s explore how this powerful diagnostic tool can provide insights into your joint health.

How MRIs help diagnose joint issues

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides detailed, high-resolution images of soft tissues, bones, muscles, tendons, and cartilage. Unlike X-rays, which focus primarily on bones, MRIs can detect changes in the tissues that support your joints for a far more comprehensive picture of your joint health and function.

This makes MRIs ideal for diagnosing a range of conditions, such as:

Arthritis

MRIs can reveal inflammation, joint damage, and other signs of arthritis.

Soft tissue tears

MRIs can pinpoint injuries like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears or rotator cuff tendon damage. Because these soft tissues support and stabilize your joints, they’re sometimes the source of joint pain, instability, and other issues.

Cartilage damage

Cartilage coats the end of your bones that meet in a joint. When the cartilage erodes, as with osteoarthritis, or is damaged in an injury or disease, your bones can rub together and cause pain.

Infections

MRIs can identify infections inside or around your joint.

Bone fractures

Although X-rays can identify some fractures, smaller ones are sometimes impossible to see with basic imaging. An MRI can find fractures that may not be visible on X-rays.

Why choose an open MRI?

Traditional MRI machines can feel restrictive, but our Hitachi Airis II open MRI provides a more comfortable experience, particularly for people who struggle with claustrophobia or anxiety. Open MRIs offer several benefits:

Spacious design for enhanced comfort
Reduced noise compared to closed MRIs
Accurate imaging without compromising quality

Your comfort during your MRI is our top goal, and our highly trained specialists at LA MRI Center, Inc. always go the extra mile to help you have the best possible experience.

Schedule your MRI today

Our centrally located facility in Koreatown makes advanced imaging convenient and accessible. With free parking, quick scheduling, and an experienced team committed to high-quality care, we’re here to support you in finding answers to your joint concerns.

We’re not just about the joints, either. We provide comprehensive MRI services from providers you can trust. Schedule your MRI today by calling our office or requesting an appointment online.