MRI Ankle / Foot
Detailed MRI of the ankle and foot for ligament and tendon injury, stress fractures, and chronic pain work-up.
Find MRI Ankle / Foot near you
What a mri ankle / foot shows
- Lateral and medial ankle ligament tears (ATFL, CFL, deltoid)
- Achilles, peroneal, and tibialis posterior tendinopathy or tear
- Plantar fascia tears and plantar fasciitis
- Osteochondral lesions of the talar dome
- Stress fractures of the metatarsals, calcaneus, or tibia
- Morton's neuroma and other forefoot pathology
- Tarsal coalition
Why your physician orders it
- Acute ankle sprain that isn't improving
- Chronic ankle instability
- Suspected tendon tear or rupture
- Heel or arch pain not responding to treatment
- Pre-operative planning for ankle or foot surgery
Contrast notes
Most musculoskeletal MRI is performed without contrast. Gadolinium is reserved for select indications — post-operative scar vs. recurrent disc, suspected infection or tumor, or arthrographic protocols. Your ordering physician and our radiologist will confirm contrast use before the exam, and kidney function is screened first when contrast is planned.
Prep summary
Most patients don't need special prep beyond completing the MRI/CT safety screening and removing metal jewelry. Specific prep (fasting, contrast, medication timing) is confirmed at scheduling.
Read the full MRI prep guideWhat to expect during the exam
Plan for 30–60 minutes at the imaging center. You'll change into a gown and remove all metal. A technologist positions you on the table with the coil over the area being imaged; the table then slides into the magnet.
MRI is loud — you'll wear ear protection and can listen to music or talk to the technologist through the intercom at any time. Holding still for each sequence (typically 2–5 minutes each) produces the sharpest images.
Results and report turnaround
Every study is interpreted by a board-certified radiologist — most by fellowship-trained sub-specialists in the relevant body system. Preliminary reads are typically available within a few hours, with the signed final report sent to your ordering provider the same business day.
You can also request a copy of the report and the imaging on disk for your own records or for a second opinion.
Cost and insurance
Most major California insurance plans cover medically necessary ankle/foot MRI when authorized. Our team verifies your benefits before scheduling and tells you up front what — if anything — you'll owe.
We also accept cash pay, workers' compensation, and personal-injury liens. Self-pay rates are published below so there are no surprises at the front desk.
Why patients choose Precise Imaging for MRI Ankle / Foot
Sub-specialty Reads
Fellowship-trained neuro, MSK, and body radiologists interpret every study.
Open & Wide-Bore Options
Comfortable choices for claustrophobic, pediatric, or larger patients.
Same-Day Appointments
Most locations offer same- or next-day scheduling, including evenings and weekends.
Every Financial Type
Insurance, cash, workers' comp, and personal injury liens accepted.
Find a mri ankle / foot location
Our network covers California from San Diego to Sacramento. Use the finder above to see MRI locations near you, or browse the full directory.
Frequently asked questions
Is ankle MRI the same as foot MRI?
They overlap but cover different fields. The ankle exam centers on the joint and lower tendons; foot MRI covers the midfoot and forefoot. Your physician specifies which is needed.
How long does it take?
30–45 minutes in the scanner.
Should I be off my feet before the exam?
No special prep is required. Wear comfortable clothing and remove any metal jewelry.
Will I need contrast?
Most ankle and foot MRIs are non-contrast.
When will my doctor get the results?
The signed final report is typically delivered to your physician the same business day.
How much does it cost?
Insured patients pay their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.