Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Shoulder

MRI of the Shoulder, Shoulder MRI

Why It Is Done

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the shoulder is done to:

• Check unexplained shoulder pain.
• Find problems in the shoulder, such as arthritis, bone tumors, worn-out cartilage, torn ligaments, torn tendons, or infection. An MRI can detect tears in the cartilage (labrum) in the shoulder. Labral tears often are caused by injury and can lead to shoulder pain.
• Find rotator cuff disorders, including tears and impingement.

MRI may also help diagnosis a bone fracture when X-rays and other tests are not clear. MRI is done more commonly than other tests to check for certain bone and joint problems.

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Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: April 10, 2007
Medical Review:	Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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