A crucial step in getting treatment for an injury or debilitating condition is receiving an accurate diagnosis. Doctors have different methods and tools for diagnosing the cause of an injury or pain.
A thorough diagnosis will often include a physical examination of your symptoms and a review of your medical history. There are also tools that medical professionals can use to confirm a diagnosis, such as X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What is an MRI?
An MRI is a method of capturing images of the inside of your body. The MRI device is a large magnetic tube in which you lie while it captures images with radio waves and magnets. There are several advantages to using an MRI in a diagnosis, including:
- It does not use radiation.
- It provides a clear, three-dimensional image of the inside of your body.
- It can capture multiple images from different angles.
- It is less likely to cause allergic reactions than CT scans or X-rays.
- It can capture images of the entire body, which eliminates the need for multiple painful poses.
What is it like to get an MRI?
During the MRI scan, all you do is lie and relax while the machine does all the work. It’s important to not move while the machine is capturing its images, so the technician may ask you to hold your breath every now and then for certain images.
An MRI scan may seem intimidating at first since it requires you to lie still in a tube. However, it can be a gentle and relaxing process if handled well.
Our technicians at Florida Spine and Joint in Hollywood, Florida, prioritize your comfort as a patient during an MRI procedure. Our staff will be with you through the whole process to answer any questions and see to your needs.
Can anyone get an MRI?
MRI scans are very helpful in confirming a diagnosis, but, unfortunately, not everyone is a good candidate for an MRI. Since the machine uses powerful magnets, anyone with metal implants, including pacemakers and nerve stimulators, cannot undergo an MRI. The magnets are strong enough to turn metallic objects into projectiles, so you wouldn’t want them interfering with anything inside of your body.
Some pregnant women may not be good candidates for an MRI. People who are claustrophobic may also not be good candidates, but you can ask for a sedative if this is an issue for you.
Visit iRISE Spine and Joint in Hollywood for an MRI
Many doctors are more comfortable confirming a diagnosis with the help of an MRI. If you’re trying to get treatment for an injury and need an MRI for a diagnosis first, come visit our clinic in Hollywood. Contact us today to speak with one of our dedicated patient care coordinators and learn more or to schedule an appointment.
