Some patients present with conditions that require a more detailed evaluation to be able to see what the source of pain or dysfunction may be. One of the best ways to see into the body is to undergo an MRI exam. MRI or magnetic resonance imaging is an image produced when the body is placed into a very strong magnetic field to orient all the protons in the body into the same direction and then turning the magnet off suddenly flips the orientation of those protons, which releases a signal that is picked up by the sensors in the MRI tube.

This signal is then turned into an image that allows radiologists to see all the anatomy of the body. MRI uses no radiation and is considered a very safe imaging method and the information gained is extremely valuable in making treatment decisions. The only downside is cost, MRI can be expensive, but the information gained is worth the expense.