Foot MRI - Overview & Technique

A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the foot is a noninvasive method to create detailed pictures of the foot. Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet. The magnetic field produced by an MRI is about 10 thousand times greater than the earth's. The magnetic field forces hydrogen atoms in the body to line up in a certain way (similar to how the needle on a compass moves when you hold it near a magnet). When radio waves are sent toward the lined-up hydrogen atoms, they bounce back, and a computer records the signal. Different types of tissues send back different signals. Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images. The foot and ankle are among the hardest of all areas to image because of the complex three-dimensional anatomy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), with its multiplanar capabilities, excellent soft-tissue contrast, ability to image bone marrow, noninvasiveness, and lack of ionizing radiation, has become a valuable tool in evaluating patients with foot and ankle problems. MRI is more specific than bone scintigraphy and provides more information than ultrasound and computed tomography. Arthroscopy of the ankle is limited to the articular surface and joint space. MRI allows a global evaluation of the bones, tendons, ligaments, and other structures with a single examination that exceeds the capabilities of all other available techniques.

Foot MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

MRI - lower extremity; Magnetic resonance imaging - foot, Magnetic resonance imaging - lower extremity; MRI - foot, Magnetic resonance imaging - foot

Foot MRI Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Test

• MRI is more specific than bone scintigraphy and provides more information than ultrasound and computed tomography.
• MRI allows a global evaluation of the bones, tendons, ligaments, and other structures with a single examination that exceeds the capabilities of all other available techniques.
• The detail makes MRI an invaluable tool in early diagnosis and evaluation of tumors.
• MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone with other imaging methods.
• Exposure to radiation is avoided.

MRI of the Foot - Indications, Common Uses, & Positive Findings

• Tendon injuries
• Ligament injuries
• Cartilage injuries
• Fractures
• Tumors (soft tissue and bone)
• Infection
• Avascular necrosis
• Non-unions or delayed unions of bone fractures
• Arthritis

MRI of the Foot - Images

MRI of the Foot - References, Links, and Additional Information

Schedule Your Foot MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

• If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.

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• Foot MRI information including overview, technique, alternatives, benefits, and common findings. Schedule an MRI of the foot in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, or Glendale.
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