MRI Elbow
MRI of the elbow for tendinopathy, ligament injury, loose bodies, and nerve entrapment.
Find MRI Elbow near you
What a mri elbow shows
- Common extensor and flexor tendinopathy (tennis and golfer's elbow)
- Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear
- Distal biceps and triceps tendon injury
- Osteochondral lesions and loose bodies
- Ulnar nerve entrapment at the cubital tunnel
- Olecranon bursitis
Why your physician orders it
- Lateral or medial elbow pain not improving
- Suspected UCL or distal biceps tear
- Pain with locking or catching
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and small fingers
- Pre-operative planning
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 elbow 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 Elbow
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 elbow 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
What position will my elbow be in?
Most often at your side with a dedicated coil. For some indications the arm is positioned above your head — your technologist explains the best position for your exam.
How long does the exam take?
30–45 minutes in the scanner.
Will I need contrast?
Most elbow MRIs are non-contrast. MR arthrography is occasionally ordered for partial UCL tears.
Is the exam covered by insurance?
Most California insurance plans cover medically necessary elbow MRI when authorized. We verify benefits before scheduling.
When will I get results?
The signed final report is typically available the same business day.
How much does it cost?
We offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.