About a scapula MRI scan
The scapula (shoulder blade) is the flat, triangular bone at the back of the shoulder. It forms the socket of the shoulder joint and is held against the chest wall by layers of muscle, which control how the shoulder moves. A scapula MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays, to show the bone and the soft tissues around it.
Fractures of the scapula are uncommon and usually follow a high-energy injury; they can be hard to see on X-ray, and MRI or CT may be used to look more closely. MRI is also used to investigate a winged scapula, where the shoulder blade sticks out from the back, often because of weakness of a muscle after a nerve injury; snapping scapula, a painful grinding or clicking as the shoulder blade moves over the ribs, which can be caused by an inflamed bursa or a bony lump; muscle tears; and lumps of the bone or soft tissue, such as an osteochondroma or elastofibroma.
For pain in the shoulder joint itself, such as rotator cuff tears or impingement, a shoulder MRI is usually the right scan. You can read more in our article on shoulder MRI. When you book, choose the left or right side.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed, with a coil placed around your shoulder and shoulder blade. The scanner is loud, so you will wear ear plugs or headphones, and the radiographer can talk to you throughout. You need to keep your arm and shoulder still while the pictures are taken. Contrast dye is not usually needed, but may be used to look at a lump; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
A scapula MRI can help to look at:
- fractures and bone bruising after an injury
- winged scapula and nerve or muscle problems
- snapping scapula and scapulothoracic bursitis
- muscle and tendon tears around the shoulder blade
- lumps of the bone and soft tissue, such as osteochondroma and elastofibroma
- infection and inflammation
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally. Upload any previous X-ray or scan reports when you book, and remember to choose the correct side.
You can usually eat, drink and take your normal medicines unless the scanning centre tells you otherwise. Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zips or buttons, and leave jewellery at home. You will be asked to remove metal items such as hair clips, hearing aids, coins and keys, and you may be asked to change into a gown.
Before the scan you will complete a safety questionnaire. Tell the team if you have a pacemaker, any metal implant, surgical clips or other device, if you have kidney problems or allergies, or if you are, or might be, pregnant or breastfeeding. If you feel anxious in enclosed spaces, let us know when you book. Some centres can offer a relaxant, and if you take one you will need someone to take you home and must not drive for 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
What causes a winged scapula?
It is usually caused by weakness of a muscle that holds the shoulder blade against the ribs, often after an injury to the nerve that supplies it. Less often, a bony lump under the shoulder blade pushes it out. An MRI can help find the cause.
Should I have a scapula or shoulder MRI?
A shoulder MRI looks at the shoulder joint, rotator cuff and labrum. A scapula MRI looks at the shoulder blade itself and the muscles around it. Your referrer will say which is needed; if you are unsure, contact us before booking.
Do I need to choose a side?
Yes. Choose the left or right scapula when you book. If both sides need scanning, contact us so the centre can plan the appointment.
Do I need a referral?
You can tell us if you have a referral from your GP, physiotherapist or consultant and upload it when you book. If you do not have one, select “no referral” when you book and the scanning centre will confirm the next steps with you.
Sources
- Radiopaedia – Snapping scapula syndrome
- ARRS – The cracked wing: a radiologic overview of scapular fractures
- Static winging of the scapula caused by osteochondroma in adults: a case series (PMC)
- RadiologyInfo.org – Musculoskeletal MRI
- NHS – MRI scan
The information on this page has been gathered from various sources and is provided for general information only. It is not medical advice. TOP MRI is not liable for the accuracy or completeness of this information. Please speak to your doctor or the scanning centre about your own situation.