Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is usually the best choice for examining the body’s major joints, the spine, soft tissues (such as muscles, tendons, and ligaments), and bones specifically located in the extremities.

MR imaging is typically performed to diagnose or evaluate degenerative joint disorders such as arthritis, meniscal tears (knee), or labral tears (shoulder and hip). We can also look for fractures and joint abnormalities due to trauma such as tears of ligaments and tendons.

Typically an MRI of a joint is used to diagnose sports-related injuries and work-related disorders caused by repeated strain, vibration, or forceful impact.

An MRI can also find infections and tumors involving soft tissues around the joints and extremities.