Memoirs of a Radiologist | Why MRI Should be Your First Choice in Shoulder Injuries

Shoulder injuries are a common problem, TeleradiologyHub MRI Shoulder Second Opinion Team that does it in $0 for economically depressed patients says, affecting people of all ages and occupations. The shoulder joint is complex, consisting of many different structures, including bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Imaging studies are often necessary to diagnose and treat these injuries, I must- as a radiologist also reiterate MRI is the preferred modality in many cases.

MRI is More Sensitive than Ultrasonography for Rotator Cuff Tears

In my career, I have seen multiple shoulder injuries being investigated. The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that surround the shoulder joint, helping to keep it stable and allowing for movement. Rotator cuff tears are a common cause of shoulder pain, and accurate diagnosis is essential for proper treatment. MRI is more sensitive than ultrasonography for detecting these tears, as ultrasound waves are disrupted by bones.

MRI is the Best Modality for Labral Tears

 I found that labral tears are the most commonly diagnosed injuries in shoulder imaging section. The labrum is a piece of fibrocartilage that helps to stabilize the shoulder joint, and tears in this structure can cause pain, instability, and other symptoms. Labral tears can be caused by a variety of factors, including trauma, repetitive motions, and degenerative changes. MRI is the best modality for detecting labral tears, as it provides high-resolution images of the soft tissue structures in the shoulder.

 Ultrasonography is Less Informative for Shoulder Imaging

While ultrasonography can be useful for some types of shoulder injuries, it is often less informative than MRI. This is because there are many bony structures in the shoulder joint, including the scapula, head of the humerus, and clavicle, which can disrupt ultrasound waves and make it difficult to obtain clear diagnostic images.

MRI is Useful for Diagnosing Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition in which the shoulder joint becomes stiff and painful, limiting range of motion. MRI can be very useful in diagnosing this condition, as it can provide detailed images of the joint and surrounding structures.

MR Arthrography for Detailed Imaging of Shoulder Joint

In some cases, more detailed imaging of the shoulder joint may be necessary. MR arthrography is a specialized imaging technique that involves injecting contrast material into the joint before the MRI scan. This can provide even more detailed images of the joint and help to diagnose complex or difficult-to-see injuries.