I get this question all the time. This could easily be an entire series of articles, but let's see if we can simplify it. The honest answer is: it depends.
When an MRI Is Helpful
An MRI can be incredibly valuable when it changes the plan of action. If the imaging results would alter how we treat your injury — whether that means pursuing surgery vs. conservative care, or changing the timeline of return to sport — then it's worth getting.
When an MRI May Not Be Necessary
Here's what many people don't realize: MRI findings are common in people who have no pain at all. Studies show that disc bulges, meniscus tears, and rotator cuff abnormalities show up on MRIs of asymptomatic individuals. This means that an MRI finding doesn't always explain your pain.
If we're making progress with conservative treatment and your symptoms are improving, an MRI may not change what we do. In those cases, it can actually create unnecessary anxiety.
The Bottom Line
Imaging is a tool — not a diagnosis. It should be used to confirm what a thorough clinical examination already suggests, not as a starting point. The best approach is to get evaluated by a physical therapist first, and let the clinical picture guide whether imaging is needed.
If you're dealing with pain and wondering whether you need imaging, I'd love to help you figure it out. Book a free phone consultation and we'll create a plan.
— Dr. Caleb