Magnetic Resonance Imaging, commonly known as MRI, is a powerful, noninvasive imaging technique medical professionals use to diagnose and monitor a wide range of health conditions. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI uses no ionizing radiation, making it a safer option, especially for repeated imaging or for those who are more sensitive to radiation exposure.

At the heart of an MRI machine is a large and incredibly powerful magnet—often 10,000 times stronger than the Earth’s magnetic field. Here’s what happens during an MRI:

Thanks to this high level of detail, MRI can differentiate between tissues that might appear similar on other types of scans.

MRI is highly versatile and is used to evaluate almost every part of the body. It's especially helpful when examining soft tissues, nerves, and organs. Your doctor may recommend an MRI if you're experiencing symptoms that require a closer look inside your body. Here are some of the most common reasons for an MRI:

• Detecting herniated or bulging discs
• Identifying spinal cord compression or nerve impingement
• Monitoring degenerative disc disease and other chronic spine conditions

• Diagnosing tears in ligaments or tendons (e.g., ACL, rotator cuff)
• Evaluating cartilage loss, joint inflammation, or arthritis
• Planning for orthopedic surgery or evaluating post-surgical recovery

• Detecting brain tumors, strokes, aneurysms, or bleeding
• Diagnosing multiple sclerosis (MS) and other neurological disorders
• Evaluating causes of seizures, chronic headaches, or changes in behavior

• Identifying muscle strains, hematomas, or soft tissue masses
• Assessing injuries and guiding physical therapy treatment
• Evaluating abnormal growths or cysts in soft tissue

• Investigating unexplained abdominal pain
• Evaluating liver, kidney, and pancreas conditions
• Looking for tumors

Getting an MRI might sound intimidating, especially if it’s your first time, but the process is designed to be as smooth and comfortable as possible.

You’re never alone during an MRI. The technologist will monitor you from a nearby control room and maintain constant communication through a two-way intercom. You can speak up anytime if you feel discomfort or need to pause.

Some MRI exams require a special contrast material, often called gadolinium, to improve the clarity of the images. This dye helps highlight blood vessels, inflammation, or abnormal tissues that may not be as visible on standard scans.

The contrast is typically injected into a vein in your arm during the scan. Most people tolerate it well. However, it is important to tell your technologist if you have allergies, kidney problems, or a history of reactions to contrast dyes. The dye naturally exits your body through urine within a few hours.

Your MRI scan is complete—now what? Here’s what you can expect after the procedure, including how results are handled and what comes next in your care journey.

In most cases, you’ll be able to get up and go about your day as usual right after the scan. MRI is non-invasive and doesn’t leave any lingering effects.

Your images will be reviewed by a radiologist who is specially trained to read and interpret diagnostic images like MRIs, CTs, and X-rays. Here’s what happens next:

1. The radiologist examines your MRI images in detail, looking for any signs of abnormalities, injuries, or medical conditions.
2. They compile their findings into a comprehensive diagnostic report. This may include annotated images, notes on any areas of concern, and recommendations for further evaluation if needed.

This report is securely sent to the doctor who ordered your MRI.

Once your doctor receives the radiology report, they will review the results and determine the most appropriate next steps in your care. During your follow-up appointment, your physician may:

• Explain the findings in simple terms, using the images to help you understand what was seen
• Answer any questions you have about the results or diagnosis
• Discuss a treatment plan, which may include physical therapy, medication, surgery, or referrals to specialists
• Recommend further testing, such as additional imaging, lab work, or a biopsy, if anything unclear or unexpected is found
• Reassure you, if the scan showed no cause for concern—sometimes an MRI is used to rule things out, and that can be just as valuable

We know waiting for results can be stressful. Our team works diligently behind the scenes to ensure your MRI images are reviewed accurately and efficiently. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns during this time. You’re not alone on this journey.

We understand that medical imaging can feel overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. Our experienced and compassionate team is here to guide you through every step—from preparation to results.

Compared to other imaging methods, MRI provides greater detail of soft tissues. Unlike CT scans, MRI doesn’t use ionizing radiation, making it safer for repeated imaging and ideal for long-term injury monitoring. It’s especially beneficial for diagnosing complex injuries from car accidents, falls, and workplace incidents.

To ensure your scan goes smoothly:

• Remove all metal items before the exam.
• Let the technician know if you are pregnant, have any implants (like pacemakers or metal screws), or have a history of allergic reactions.
• Discuss any anxiety or claustrophobia with your technician.

Choosing where to receive diagnostic imaging is essential, especially when recovering from an injury or trying to understand unexplained pain. We help streamline that process so you can focus on healing. When done correctly, an MRI could be a key aspect of your diagnosis. Benefits of an MRI include:

One of the most significant benefits of MRI is that it uses no ionizing radiation, unlike CT scans or traditional X-rays. Instead, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed internal images. This is especially important for patients who require multiple scans over time or who may be more vulnerable to the effects of radiation.

With MRI, you don’t have to worry about cumulative radiation exposure, making it a safe and effective option for both diagnosis and long-term care.

While X-rays are excellent for visualizing bones, and CT scans provide quick overviews, MRI is unmatched regarding soft tissue detail. This level of clarity is crucial for accurately identifying and diagnosing conditions involving:

This level of detail is essential in cases involving:

MRI’s ability to differentiate between healthy and damaged tissues allows your care team to develop a highly targeted and effective treatment plan.

Many injuries don’t heal overnight, and effective treatment often requires monitoring over weeks or months. Because MRI involves no radiation, it can be used safely for repeat imaging to:

• Track the healing of a musculoskeletal injury
• Measure inflammation or soft tissue recovery
• Monitor chronic back pain or degenerative disc disease
• Evaluate treatment effectiveness during physical therapy or rehabilitation
• Document medical progress for legal or insurance cases

MRI is especially useful for long-term care plans, where frequent scans are necessary to guide recovery.

Our network of medical professionals will:

• Carefully review and interpret every MRI scan
• Provide comprehensive diagnostic reports
• Collaborate directly with our referring providers to ensure clear communication
• Are available for follow-up consultations if needed

As a result, you’ll receive coordinated care, helping you move from diagnosis to treatment without unnecessary delays.

We’re proud to serve patients from all walks of life—including those recovering from auto accidents, workplace incidents, or unexplained chronic pain. Whether you need a single scan or ongoing monitoring, we’re here to help you through the diagnosis and recovery process.

At Accident and Injury Rehab Center, we pride ourselves on our personalized care for every patient. No two accident injuries are the same; whether you’re recovering from an auto accident, workplace incident, or other type of personal injury, we are here to support you every step of the way.