What is a Shoulder MRI Scan?

A Shoulder MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed images of the shoulder joint and surrounding soft tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation and is particularly effective at visualising tendons, ligaments and cartilage.

The scan allows clinicians to assess key structures including the rotator cuff tendons, labrum, shoulder joint capsule, muscles, ligaments and surrounding bones. It provides clarity when pain, instability or reduced movement cannot be explained by physical examination alone.

A Shoulder MRI is commonly used to diagnose soft tissue injuries, joint degeneration, inflammation and structural damage following trauma or overuse.

Why do I need a Shoulder MRI Scan?

A Shoulder MRI scan is recommended when shoulder pain persists, worsens or affects daily activities, sport or sleep. It helps identify the exact cause of symptoms, allowing accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

You may need a Shoulder MRI scan if you experience:

• Persistent shoulder pain or stiffness
• Weakness or loss of shoulder strength
• Limited range of movement
• Pain when lifting the arm or reaching overhead
• Suspected rotator cuff tear
• Shoulder instability or repeated dislocations
• Injury following trauma or sports activity
• Clicking, catching or locking sensations
• Night-time shoulder pain
• Poor response to physiotherapy or medication

Early imaging reduces the risk of long-term damage and guides effective treatment planning.

Benefits of a Shoulder MRI Scan

1. Gold-standard shoulder imaging
   Provides exceptional detail of tendons, ligaments and cartilage.
2. No radiation exposure
   Safe for repeated imaging compared to CT scans.
3. Accurate diagnosis of rotator cuff injuries
   Detects partial and full-thickness tears.
4. Identifies soft tissue damage
   Visualises labral tears, inflammation and tendon degeneration.
5. Guides treatment decisions
   Supports physiotherapy, injections or surgical planning.
6. Detects hidden injuries
   Reveals problems not visible on X-rays.
7. Monitors healing or degeneration
   Useful for follow-up after injury or surgery.
8. Provides clarity and reassurance
   Confirms or rules out serious shoulder conditions.

Step-by-Step – How We Offer Shoulder MRI Scans

Clinic-Based Shoulder MRI Scan (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK imaging clinic
• Attend your scheduled appointment
• The scan typically takes 20–40 minutes
• Images are reviewed by a specialist radiologist
• You receive a detailed written diagnostic report

Important:
Shoulder MRI scans are performed in clinic only. Home visits are not available due to specialised MRI equipment. Services are available across the UK.

Your Shoulder MRI Results Explained

Shoulder MRI results are interpreted based on structural findings and severity, rather than numerical values.

Normal Results

What this means:

• Normal shoulder joint alignment
• Intact rotator cuff tendons
• No inflammation or structural damage

What it suggests:
Symptoms may be muscular, postural or functional rather than structural.

Mild to Moderate Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Tendon inflammation (tendinitis)
• Partial rotator cuff tears
• Mild joint degeneration
• Bursitis or soft tissue swelling

What it suggests:
Often managed with physiotherapy, rest, injections or conservative treatment.

Significant or Severe Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Full-thickness rotator cuff tears
• Labral tears
• Significant joint degeneration or arthritis
• Structural instability or severe inflammation

What it suggests:
May require specialist referral, targeted interventions or surgical assessment.