About a shoulder MRI scan
The shoulder is a ball-and-socket joint, where the top of the upper arm bone (humerus) sits in a shallow socket on the shoulder blade. Because the socket is so shallow, the shoulder depends on soft tissues to keep it stable: the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and tendons that wrap around the joint, and the labrum, a rim of cartilage that deepens the socket. A shoulder MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves, not X-rays, to show these soft tissues as well as the bones.
The most common reason for a shoulder MRI is to look at the rotator cuff, for tendon inflammation (tendinopathy), partial or full tears, and impingement, where the tendons are pinched under the bony roof of the shoulder when you lift your arm. These problems cause pain, often worse at night or when reaching overhead, and weakness. MRI is also used after a dislocation or when the shoulder feels unstable, to look for damage to the labrum and bone; for pain from the joint between the collarbone and shoulder blade (the AC joint); and for arthritis, fractures that do not show on X-ray, and lumps.
Many shoulder problems, including frozen shoulder, are diagnosed from your symptoms and an examination, and an ultrasound scan can also show the rotator cuff. MRI is useful when the cause is unclear, when symptoms do not settle with treatment, or when surgery is being considered. For a detailed look at the labrum, your specialist may suggest an MRI arthrogram of the shoulder instead, where contrast is injected into the joint first. You can read more in our articles on shoulder MRI and common shoulder injuries. When you book, choose the left or right side.
What happens during the scan
You lie on your back on the scanner bed with your arm by your side, and a coil is placed around your shoulder. Pads may be used to help you stay comfortable and still. 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; where contrast is needed, it is charged separately.
What the scan can show
A shoulder MRI can help to look at:
- rotator cuff tendinopathy and partial or full tears
- shoulder impingement and bursitis
- labral tears and damage after a dislocation
- biceps tendon problems
- AC joint arthritis and injury
- osteoarthritis and cartilage damage
- hidden fractures and bone bruising
- lumps of the bone and soft tissue
Preparing for your scan
No special preparation is needed, and you can eat and drink normally. If lying still is painful, you may want to take your usual painkillers before your appointment. Upload any previous X-ray, ultrasound 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
Can an MRI show a rotator cuff tear?
Yes. MRI shows the rotator cuff tendons clearly, and can show whether a tear is partial or full thickness, how large it is, and the condition of the muscles. This helps your specialist decide whether physiotherapy or surgery is the better option.
Should I have a shoulder MRI or an MRI arthrogram?
A standard shoulder MRI is suitable for most problems, including rotator cuff tears. An MRI arthrogram is usually used to look at the labrum in more detail, for example if your shoulder keeps dislocating. 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 shoulder when you book. If both shoulders 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
- NHS – Shoulder pain
- NHS – Dislocated shoulder
- NHS – Frozen shoulder
- 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.