Diagnostic Testing: MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is sophisticated diagnostic equipment used to diagnose an array of health problems or conditions, including:

● Arthritis.
● Fractures.
● Infections.
● Injuries of the tendons, ligaments, or cartilage.
● Tumors.

MRI's use no radiation like conventional X-rays or CT scans. They employ large magnet and radio waves to produce three-dimensional images. MRIs are very good at portraying soft tissues and bones in your feet and ankles.

People with the following conditions may not be good candidates for a MRI:

● Conditions that requires a heart pacemaker.
● Artificial heart valves.
● Electronic inner ear implants.
● Electronic stimulators.
● Implanted pumps.
● Metal fragments in eyes.
● Surgical clips in the head (particularly aneurysm clips).
● Individuals with dental fillings or bridges, a replacement hip or knee, or tubal ligation clips are generally safe to have a MRI.

In most cases, a full exam of the foot and ankle via MRI lasts between 60 and 90 minutes.