Tuesday, April 24, 2012

What is an MRI

What is an MRI

MRI offers you an advanced detailed look inside.  Hydrogen protons within the body align with the magnetic field and through short radio frequencies (RF) pulses going to a specific anatomical slice; the protons in the slice absorb energy at the resonant frequency, causing them to spin perpendicular to the magnetic field.  As the protons relax back into alignment within the magnetic field a signal is received by an RF coil that acts as an anatomical are of interest.  The contiguous thin slice images can be obtained in various planes for  optimum clinical evaluation.  MRI is used to evaluate ligaments, muscle and bony abnormalities with out the need for painful invasive procedures.

MRI is a good diagnostic tool for isolating disc protrusions, muscle, ligament and cartilage tears, nerve impingement as well as tumors. MRIs are specific to the slice viewed.  What this means is that MRIs are not all inclusive so some conditions can be missed.

One thing I have learned is nothing replaces a thorough hands on evaluation of the region involved.    
MRI  


Dr. Shawnie
drshawnie.com
918.249.1535
Chiropractic Physician
Broken Arrow /  Tulsa, OK