MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, and it is a technique that medical professionals use to get a very detailed picture of the internal body structures. Medical professionals enjoy using the magnetic resonance imaging technology because it allows them to get a much more detailed image than what they could get by using ordinary X-ray technology.

Magnetic resonance imaging is a very useful thing because it allows medical professionals to see if there is any soft tissue damage and identify any issues that may be hidden inside of the human body. Even though X-ray technology is a pretty good thing, sometimes it is necessary to get a more detailed image that only an MRI can provide. How can you know when you need to use an MRI for a foot injury? Your podiatrist may use some of these signs to detect a serious injury. 

Pain After a Negative X-ray

As you already know, images taken by an X-ray are not as much detailed as images that are taken by an MRI. If you feel pain or experience swelling in your ankle or foot, but the X-ray wasn't really able to help you see what's wrong, an MRI can help you find out whether you are dealing with a ligament injury, incomplete fracture, or stress fracture.

Weak Joint

If you feel like you constantly need to roll or turn your ankle, you might be experiencing something that is simply known as ankle instability. The main cause of ankle instability is ligament injury, which is something that an MRI can help you discover. By using an MRI, your doctor will be able to see if there are any other hidden issues that may be causing you to constantly roll or turn your ankle.

Swollen Tendons

Swollen tendons are something that needs to be taken seriously. The reason why is because they can be very problematic, especially if the swelling is caused by some kind of infection or disease. An MRI can help your doctor see how much damage there really is and prescribe what form of treatment would work the best for you – either tendon replacement or tendon repair, or basically any other type of orthopedic surgery.

Look for an Infection

When it comes to identifying infections, an MRI is a very useful tool. An MRI can reveal an infection of the bone (osteomyelitis) and a deep infection (abscess). If the doctors detect the infection early enough, they might be able to save parts of your feet or bones.