Lower Extremity Magnetic Resonance Imaging

What This Test Does

A lower extremity MRI produces clear, detailed images of the structures inside your leg, including bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and blood vessels. It helps your healthcare provider find the cause of pain, swelling, weakness, or limited movement in the leg.

How to Prepare

You may be asked to remove metal objects such as jewelry, watches, and hairpins, and to tell the staff about any implanted devices, such as pacemakers or metal implants, because strong magnets are used. Tell your provider if you are pregnant, have kidney problems, or are allergic to contrast dye, since a contrast agent may sometimes be used.

What to Expect During the Scan

You will lie still on a table that slides into a tubelike scanner. The machine makes loud knocking or banging sounds, so earplugs or headphones are often provided. The scan is painless, but it can take a while, and you may need to hold your leg still for periods of time. Some people receive a contrast dye through an IV line.

After the Test

Most people can return to normal activities right away. If you received a contrast dye, your care team may have you stay briefly for observation. A radiologist reviews the images and sends a report to your provider, who will discuss the results with you.