An MRI scan uses magnetic and radio waves to visualize structures of the body. If you are experiencing shoulder pain that won’t alleviate, your physician may recommend a shoulder MRI scan. In comparison to X-rays and CT scans, an MRI scan is the best option when muscles and ligaments of the shoulder need to be studied. At South Jersey Radiology Associates, an MRI scan should never stress you out. Here is what you should know before your shoulder MRI scan.
Why Do I Need A Shoulder MRI Scan?
The shoulder is a complex part of the upper body that is used frequently in everyday life. When persistent shoulder pain is present, it is important to get your shoulder looked at. A shoulder MRI scan can help to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions including:
- Arthritis
- Infections
- Joint Degeneration
- Labral Tears
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Sports Injuries
- Stress Fractures
- Tumors
What To Expect During Your Shoulder MRI Scan?
Shoulders are a very common part of the body studied by MRI scans. A shoulder MRI scan requires no special preparation. Unless directed otherwise by your physician, you may continue to take your regular medications and maintain your diet. Prior to your appointment, you want to avoid wearing any clothing that contains metal including zippers, belts, buttons, jewelry, and so forth. Since MRI scans use magnetic fields, metal materials are prohibited.
If you have claustrophobia or anxiety in small areas, be sure to reach out to South Jersey Radiology and ask about our accommodations. Wide-Bore MRIs are available at our office locations allowing patients to be more comfortable during the study. In some cases, your physician may be able to prescribe anti-anxiety medication to take before your appointment.
What Happens During A Shoulder MRI Scan?
You want to arrive at least fifteen minutes before your appointment. One of our MRI technologists will accompany you during the study and get you settled. You will lie down on a comfortable bed. The bed will slowly move back into the scanner and the images of your shoulder will be captured. An MRI scan takes around 15 – 90 minutes to complete. After the MRI scan, one of our subspecialized radiologists will interpret the images and develop a detailed report. The images and reports will be sent to your physician within 48 hours of the study being completed.
Outpatient imaging centers offer high-quality, affordable medical imaging services that prioritize patient comfort and convenience. South Jersey Radiology Associates offers diagnostic and advanced imaging services including shoulder MRI scans up to 60% less than hospital-based imaging centers. If you would like to schedule your shoulder MRI scan, reach out to one of our following locations:
- Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
- Medford Office – Medford, NJ
- Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
- Mount Laurel Office – Mount Laurel, NJ
- Route 73 (Voorhees) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
- Sewell (Washington Twp) Office – Sewell, NJ
- Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
- Voorhees (Carnie Blvd) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
- West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
- Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
Learn more about the board-certified subspecialized radiologists who read and interpret studies at SJRA here.
Frequently Asked Questions
A shoulder MRI scan is recommended when you are experiencing persistent shoulder pain. It helps diagnose various medical conditions related to the shoulder, including arthritis, infections, joint degeneration, labral tears, rotator cuff tears, sports injuries, stress fractures, and tumors. Compared to X-rays and CT scans, an MRI scan provides detailed visualization of the muscles and ligaments in the shoulder.
A shoulder MRI scan requires no special preparation in terms of medications or diet. However, you should avoid wearing clothing with metal, including zippers, belts, buttons, and jewelry, as MRI scans use magnetic fields that prohibit metal materials. If you have claustrophobia or anxiety in small spaces, inform our staff and your referring doctor. Wide-Bore MRIs are available to enhance patient comfort. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe anti-anxiety medication before the appointment.
Arrive at least fifteen minutes before your appointment. Our MRI technologist will guide you through the study and help you get settled. You will lie down on a comfortable bed that will slowly move into the scanner. The scanner will capture images of your shoulder, and the scan usually takes around 15 to 90 minutes to complete. Afterward, a subspecialized radiologist will interpret the images and generate a detailed report. The images and reports will be sent to your doctor within 48 hours of the study being completed.
South Jersey Radiology Associates offers shoulder MRI scans at various locations. To schedule your appointment, you can contact any of the following locations:
• Marlton (Greentree) Office – Marlton, NJ
• Medford Office – Medford, NJ
• Moorestown Office – Moorestown, NJ
• Mount Laurel Office – Mount Laurel, NJ
• Route 73 (Voorhees) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
• Sewell (Washington Twp) Office – Sewell, NJ
• Turnersville Office – Turnersville, NJ
• Voorhees (Carnie Blvd) Office – Voorhees Township, NJ
• West Deptford Office – West Deptford, NJ
• Willingboro Office – Willingboro, NJ
Yes, independent, outpatient imaging centers like South Jersey Radiology provide high-quality and affordable medical imaging services that prioritize patient comfort and convenience. Our shoulder MRI scans can be up to 60% less expensive than hospital-based imaging centers.
The shoulder MRI scan results are read and interpreted by our team of board-certified, subspecialized radiologists. Our radiologists have expertise in specific areas, ensuring accurate and comprehensive evaluation of the scan results. You can learn more about our radiologists by visiting our physician profiles.