How Do MRI Facilities Address Sports Related Injuries?

Sports injuries are an unwelcome but unavoidable reality for athletes at all levels. Athletes often seek accurate and non-invasive diagnosis methods to understand the nature of the injury. Then, reaching out to the best MRI facilities is a wise choice to get invaluable insights. Read on to explore the efficacy of MRI in detecting and treating sports-related injuries.

Are Sports Injuries a Common Occurrence?

Sports injuries are, unfortunately, quite common among athletes. A study estimates that approximately a million sports-related injuries occur each year in the United States. High-contact sports like football and basketball contribute significantly to this number. But it's not just these; even non-contact sports, such as swimming and cycling, have their share of injuries, often due to overuse or incorrect technique.

Can MRI Detect Sports Injury?

MRI is a powerful tool in detecting a wide range of sports injuries. The imaging technology employs magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of internal structures like bones, muscles and tendons. There is no radiation exposure, so it is a favored method for a precise diagnosis. MRI scans can help doctors make a definitive diagnosis and plan treatment for fractures and soft tissue injuries.

Is MRI a Good Option for Patients?

MRI facilities offer three main advantages for patients:

Injury Detection: An MRI scan can accurately identify the type of injury and its severity.

Monitoring Healing Progression: Follow-up MRI scans can indicate how well an injury is healing, offering valuable data for ongoing treatment.

A Guide Path for Rehabilitation Exercises: By examining the MRI images, physicians can tailor rehabilitation exercises for a quicker recovery.

Which Severe Sports Injuries Does MRI Detect?

  • Concussion: The MRI can detect changes in the brain after a serious impact.

  • Ligament Injury: It is crucial for diagnosing ACL and MCL injuries.

  • Meniscus Cartilage Injury: It is very common in sports like football and basketball.

  • Muscle Tear: MRI helps in the assessment of the tear's extent.

  • Bone Fracture: It can even detect stress fractures, which are commonly missed by X-rays.

A Comparative Study Between Open MRI and Closed MRI

Open MRI and closed MRI differ mainly in their structure. Open MRI facilities may offer slightly less detailed images. Closed MRI, on the other hand, delivers high-resolution images. The newer closed MRI machines are substantially larger than some older units. This design innovation creates a more open environment, allowing for increased breathing room and head space for the patient.

The Advantages of Open MRI Machines

  • Comfortable for Patients: No enclosed space reduces anxiety.

  • Accurate Results: It is sufficient for most diagnostic needs.

  • Flexible Positioning: This method is useful for examining hard-to-scan areas.

  • Less Expensive: The scan is affordable for patients.

Why Is It Ideal to Find MRI Facilities with Closed Machines?

  • Sharper Images: The newer versions of closed MRI provide extremely high-resolution images.

  • Time-Efficient: Scans are often quicker.

  • Advanced Imaging: It is capable of more complex imaging tests.

  • Versatility: This scan is suitable for a broader range of conditions.

  • Availability: These machines are more readily available in the medical settings of Oklahoma City.

Come to Our Facility for Receiving High-Quality MRI Images

For a swift and effective recovery from sports injuries, don't settle for less. Visit Evolution Imaging, where you'll receive the most accurate and comfortable imaging experience to meet your unique diagnostic needs. Choose the best MRI facilities in Oklahoma City and invest in finding the root of the injury. Get in touch with us.

Previous
Previous

Guide to Leading Diagnostic Imaging Techniques & Top Choices

Next
Next

Heart Imaging Revolution: From Detection to Treatment