MRI Wrist / Hand
MRI of the wrist and hand for ligament and tendon injury, TFCC tears, carpal tunnel work-up, and occult fracture.
Find MRI Wrist / Hand near you
What a mri wrist / hand shows
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears
- Scapholunate and lunotriquetral ligament injury
- Occult scaphoid and carpal fractures
- Tendon tears and tenosynovitis
- Ganglion cysts and soft-tissue masses
- Carpal tunnel and other compressive neuropathies
- Avascular necrosis (Kienböck's, Preiser's)
Why your physician orders it
- Wrist pain after a fall with normal X-rays
- Persistent wrist or hand pain with limited motion
- Suspected TFCC or ligament injury
- Numbness or tingling suggesting nerve compression
- Pre-operative evaluation
Contrast notes
Standard wrist and hand MRI is non-contrast. MR arthrography (intra-articular gadolinium injection) is sometimes ordered for suspected TFCC or ligament tears.
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 30–45 minutes. Most wrist exams are performed with the hand at your side or above your head depending on the coil and indication; the technologist will explain positioning before the scan.
Holding the hand still and relaxed gives 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 wrist/hand 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 Wrist / Hand
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 wrist / hand 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
Why would my doctor order a wrist MRI after a normal X-ray?
X-rays sometimes miss subtle scaphoid fractures, ligament injuries, and soft-tissue pathology. MRI confirms these and changes management when they're present.
How long does it take?
30–45 minutes in the scanner.
What position will my arm be in?
Either at your side with a dedicated wrist coil, or above your head — your technologist explains the optimal position for your exam.
Will I need an MR arthrogram?
Only if your physician orders one for a suspected TFCC or ligament tear. Most wrist MRIs are non-contrast.
When will my doctor get the results?
The signed final report is typically delivered the same business day.
How much does it 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.