MRI Hip
MRI of the hip for labral injury, femoroacetabular impingement, avascular necrosis, and post-surgical follow-up.
Find MRI Hip near you
What a mri hip shows
- Acetabular labral tears
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and cam/pincer morphology
- Avascular necrosis of the femoral head
- Hip arthritis and chondral injury
- Gluteal tendinopathy and tears
- Stress and insufficiency fractures
- Bursitis and snapping hip syndrome
Why your physician orders it
- Groin or anterior hip pain
- Suspected labral tear or FAI in an active patient
- Limp or unexplained hip pain
- Risk factors for AVN (steroid use, sickle cell, prior trauma)
- Pre-operative planning for hip arthroscopy
Contrast notes
Many hip MRIs are non-contrast. When a labral tear is the leading concern, an MR arthrogram is often preferred — dilute gadolinium is injected into the joint by a radiologist before the scan.
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 hip 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 Hip
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 hip 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
Do I need an MR arthrogram or a standard MRI?
MR arthrography is more sensitive for labral tears and is preferred when surgery is being considered. Standard MRI is appropriate for AVN, stress fractures, and most extra-articular soft-tissue pathology. Your physician will specify on the order.
How long does a hip MRI take?
30–45 minutes for a standard MRI; add 20–30 minutes for the arthrographic injection.
Is the joint injection painful?
Discomfort is mild and brief. The skin is numbed before the needle is placed, and the joint may feel full for a few hours after.
Can I have a hip MRI with a hip replacement?
Yes, with caveats. Most modern prostheses are MRI-compatible; we use metal-artifact reduction sequences. Image quality near the implant is reduced, so your radiologist will confirm whether MRI or CT is the better choice given your hardware.
How quickly will I get results?
The signed final report is typically available the same business day.
How much does a hip MRI cost?
Insured patients pay only their plan's cost-share. We also offer transparent, discounted self-pay rates — call 800-558-2223 for a quote.