About an elbow MRI scan
The elbow is the hinge joint between the upper arm bone (humerus) and the two forearm bones (radius and ulna). It is held together by ligaments on each side, moved by tendons including the biceps at the front and the triceps at the back, and crossed by three major nerves, including the ulnar nerve, which runs behind the bony bump on the inside of the elbow (the “funny bone”).
An MRI scan uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays, to make detailed pictures of all these structures. It is used when elbow pain, stiffness, weakness or tingling has not settled, or when a tendon or ligament injury needs to be confirmed or graded. For example, MRI can show how far a torn distal biceps tendon has pulled back, which helps surgeons plan a repair. Left and right elbows are separate scans, so choose the side you need when you book.
What happens during the scan
You usually lie on your back with your arm by your side and your elbow in a coil, although sometimes you may be positioned with your arm above your head or bent. The radiographer will make you as comfortable as possible, as keeping still is important for clear pictures. The scanner is loud, so you will wear ear plugs or headphones. Contrast dye is not needed for most elbow scans, but may be used if inflammation, a lump or a nerve problem is suspected; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
An elbow MRI can help to look at:
- tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), including tendon tears
- ligament injuries and elbow instability, including the ulnar collateral ligament in throwing athletes
- distal biceps tendon tears and how far the tendon has retracted
- triceps tendon problems
- trapped nerves, including the ulnar nerve (cubital tunnel syndrome), median nerve and radial nerve
- cartilage damage and loose fragments in the joint
- olecranon bursitis (swelling at the point of the elbow)
- stress injuries, arthritis, infection and lumps
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is needed for an elbow MRI, and you can eat and drink normally. Remove rings, bracelets and watches. If you wear a brace or splint, bring it with you.
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
Can an MRI show tennis elbow?
Yes. MRI shows thickening, inflammation and tears of the tendons on the outside (tennis elbow) or inside (golfer’s elbow) of the elbow, and can help rule out other causes of pain.
I think I have torn my biceps at the elbow. Is MRI useful?
Yes. MRI shows whether a distal biceps tendon tear is partial or complete and how far the tendon has pulled back, which helps your surgeon plan treatment. Acute complete tears are often repaired surgically, so seek medical advice promptly.
Do I need to book the left or right side?
Yes. Each elbow is a separate scan. If you need both, book them together, as two or more areas booked together qualify for the lower clubbed price.
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 – Elbow MRI (protocol and indications)
- Applied Radiology – Imaging sports-related elbow injuries
- 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.