MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a useful diagnostic tool that can provide detailed images of the inside of the body, but it is not always necessary for every medical condition or injury. Often times the MRI will show damages in the tissue that don’t transfer into symptoms in the patient and often times the patient will have symptoms that don’t show on the MRIs hence making the MRI a waste of time and money.
Physical therapy is often recommended before getting an MRI. This may be the case if an individual is experiencing significant pain or difficulty with mobility that is preventing them from undergoing the MRI. Physical therapy can help reduce pain and improve mobility, which may make it easier for the individual to lie still in the MRI machine and complete the scan.
The decision to undergo an MRI will depend on the individual’s specific needs and circumstances, as well as the suspected diagnosis or underlying condition.
There are many other diagnostic tools and tests that may be used to evaluate an individual’s health, such as X-rays, CT scans, ultrasound, and blood tests. These tests may be used alone or in combination with each other to help diagnose a particular condition or injury.
It is important to note that MRI is not always the best or most appropriate diagnostic tool for every situation. For example, MRI is not typically used to diagnose fractures or other bone injuries, as it does not produce detailed images of bone. In such cases, an X-ray may be more appropriate.
It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist, physician or radiologist, to determine the most appropriate diagnostic approach for your individual needs and circumstances.