What is an MRI Scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of structures within the body. It is particularly useful for assessing soft tissues, joints, the spine and other structures that may not be adequately visualised using other forms of imaging.

An MRI can provide useful additional information when the findings are likely to influence your diagnosis, treatment plan or onward management.

Do I need an MRI?

Not necessarily. Many musculoskeletal conditions can be assessed and managed effectively without imaging.

MRI findings also need to be interpreted carefully, as scans can identify changes that may not necessarily be responsible for your symptoms. This is why we consider your scan findings alongside your history, clinical assessment and symptoms rather than treating an MRI report in isolation.

Where imaging is unlikely to change your management, we will explain why an MRI may not currently be necessary.

When might an MRI referral be appropriate?

Following assessment, MRI may be considered where there is diagnostic uncertainty, symptoms are persistent or unexplained, your recovery is not progressing as expected, a significant structural injury is suspected, or imaging would help determine the most appropriate next stage of treatment.

It may also be appropriate where further investigation is required before referral to another healthcare professional or consideration of specialist treatment.

What areas can be referred for MRI?

Depending on your clinical presentation and the indication for imaging, MRI can be used to investigate a range of musculoskeletal problems involving areas such as the:

• Spine
• Shoulder
• Elbow
• Wrist and hand
• Hip and pelvis
• Knee
• Ankle and foot
• Muscles, tendons and other soft tissues

Your clinician will determine the appropriate area and clinical question for the referral following assessment.

What happens during the referral process?

Your appointment begins with a detailed clinical assessment to understand your symptoms, medical history and relevant physical findings.

If MRI is clinically indicated, we can make an appropriate referral to a private imaging provider. The referral will include the relevant clinical information and the specific question that the scan is intended to investigate.

Once your MRI has been completed and the radiology report is available, the findings can be considered alongside your clinical assessment to help determine the most appropriate next steps.

What happens after my MRI?

A scan is only one part of the clinical picture.

Following your MRI, we can discuss the findings with you in the context of your symptoms and assessment. Depending on the results, your next steps may include continuing or modifying physiotherapy and rehabilitation, further investigation, or onward referral to an appropriate medical or surgical specialist.

Where necessary, we can also communicate relevant findings to your GP, consultant or other healthcare professional involved in your care.

Need Further Investigation?

If pain or injury is persisting, your recovery is not progressing as expected, or there is uncertainty around the underlying problem, a detailed clinical assessment can help determine whether further investigation is appropriate.

Book an assessment with Midland Physiotherapy to discuss your symptoms and whether MRI referral could help guide the next stage of your care.

Book Online or Read Our FAQs

Book online or read our FAQs using the details below to see how medical acupuncture can help you.