MRI: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Raghuveer Boddireddy, MD, Interventional Radiology. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides MRI?
A specialist called a radiologist reviews the images from an MRI and shares them with your provider. The person who runs the machine watches you from another room during the scan. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging test that is usually painless. It uses magnets, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. MRI does not use x-rays or other radiation.
Why a doctor might recommend it
MRI scans are often used to diagnose conditions that affect soft tissues and to monitor treatment.
MRI may be used to look at the following.
- The brain, spinal cord, and nerves
- Muscles, ligaments, and tendons
- Joints, such as the knee or shoulder
An MRI can often help diagnose an infection. It can also help identify masses and tumors, including cancer. Because MRI does not use radiation, it may be used when repeat imaging is needed.
How to prepare
- Metal objects or implants can interfere with the scan and may be unsafe.
- You will need to remove items such as jewelry, watches, hairpins, and hearing aids.
- You may be asked not to eat or drink before the scan, so follow your doctor's instructions.
Tell your provider before the scan if you have any of the following.
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding
- You feel anxious in enclosed spaces (claustrophobic)
- You have kidney problems
- You have metal or electronic devices in your body, such as a pacemaker or an artificial joint
- You have tattoos or permanent makeup
If you are afraid of close spaces, you may be given a medicine to help you feel sleepy and less anxious.
What happens during it
You lie on a table that slides inside a large, tunnel-like machine. Some facilities use an open MRI machine, which is less enclosed. Sometimes you receive contrast, a substance that helps some parts of your body show up more clearly on the images. Contrast is usually given through a vein.
The machine makes loud noises as it takes pictures. You may be given earplugs or headphones. You need to stay very still, because too much movement can blur the images. An intercom in the room lets you speak to someone at any time. The test usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes, but may take longer.
Recovery
After most MRI scans, you can return to normal activities right away. If you were given medicine to help you relax, someone will need to take you home.
Risks and side effects
No side effects from the magnetic fields and radio waves have been reported. The strong magnetic fields can cause pacemakers and other implants not to work as well.
The most common type of contrast, or dye, is gadolinium. It is thought to be generally safe for most people. In rare cases, organ and skin damage have occurred in people who already had kidney failure.
Who performs it
A radiologist reviews the images and shares them with your provider. The person who operates the machine watches you from another room.
Common questions
Does an MRI hurt?
No, an MRI is usually painless. The machine produces loud thumping and humming noises, and you can wear ear plugs to help reduce the noise.
Does an MRI use radiation?
No, MRI does not use x-rays or other radiation. It does not use the damaging ionizing radiation of x-rays like a CT scan does.
Can I have an MRI if I have metal in my body?
It may be unsafe, because metal objects or implants can interfere with the scan. Tell your provider before the scan. The magnets can also cause a piece of metal inside your body to move or shift.
What can help if I feel nervous in the machine?
Several things can help, such as listening to music or watching a video or movie, closing or covering your eyes, and holding a panic button.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - MRI Scans
- MedlinePlus - MRI
- National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
