MRI FOOT
Also Known As
Lab Test
₹8500
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
6hrs
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About The Test
Cadabams Diagnostics Difference: 3T Scanners, Same-Day Reports
- 3T magnet strength = twice the detail of standard 1.5T machines
- Sub-millimetre slices reveal tiny tendon tears and hairline fractures
- Radiologists on-site deliver reports within 4–6 hours
Quick Facts at a Glance
- Duration: 20–30 minutes
- Radiation: Zero
- Pain: None
- Walk-in or appointment: Both accepted
List of Parameters
- Bone marrow signal – detects bruising, infection, tumour
- Tendons & ligaments – checks for sprains, tears, degeneration
- Plantar fascia & fat pads – evaluates thickness, inflammation
- Joint spaces – cartilage loss, effusion
- Neurovascular bundle – nerve entrapment, vessel compression
Why This Test
Diagnosing Fractures Missed on X-ray
Up to 30 % of metatarsal stress fractures are invisible on initial X-rays. MRI FOOT spots bone oedema within 24–48 hours of injury.
Evaluating Soft-Tissue Masses
- Ganglion cysts vs. giant-cell tumours
- Lipomas vs. malignant sarcomas
- Synovial thickening in rheumatoid arthritis
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of the examination
- High-resolution soft-tissue detail – 0.4 mm slice thickness
- No radiation exposure – safe for children and pregnant patients (after 1st trimester)
- Multi-planar views – sagittal, coronal, axial, and 3-D reconstructions
- Functional sequences – dynamic contrast to assess blood flow
Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Foot
| Condition | What MRI Shows |
|---|---|
| Lisfranc injuries | Ligament disruption, subtle fractures |
| Osteomyelitis | Bone marrow oedema, sinus tracts |
| Morton’s neuroma | Enlarged interdigital nerve, bursitis |
| Plantar plate tears | Discontinuity of fibrocartilage |
| Talar dome osteochondral lesions | Cartilage delamination |
Preparing for test
Clothing & Jewellery Guidelines
- Wear cotton T-shirt and shorts or hospital gown
- Remove watches, rings, toe rings, anklets
- No metal zips, under-wires, or sequins
Fasting Rules (Only if Contrast Planned)
- 4-hour fast for solid food; clear fluids allowed
- Hydrate well post-scan to flush gadolinium
Pre-Requisites
Prior Imaging Comparison Disks
Bring CD or cloud link of previous X-ray, CT, or MRI for side-by-side comparison.
Kidney Function Tests for Contrast
Serum creatinine & eGFR within 30 days if > 60 years or diabetic
Instant eGFR available at Cadabams Diagnostics lab if needed
Best Time to Take the MRI Foot
Early Morning Slots for Claustrophobic Patients
- Less waiting = lower anxiety
- Technologist can spend extra time explaining procedure
Avoid Scheduling During Acute Swelling
- Severe oedema can blur soft-tissue detail
- Wait 48–72 hours after acute sprain for clearer images
Eligibility
Pediatric & Geriatric Suitability
- Children > 5 years can usually cooperate; younger kids may need sedation
- Elderly patients with joint replacements are routinely scanned
Pregnancy Guidelines
- 1st trimester: Avoid unless absolutely necessary
- 2nd & 3rd trimester: Safe with physician approval
Procedure for Taking a MRI Foot
- Positioning: You lie feet-first into the scanner; a soft foam cushion supports the ankle.
- Coil placement: Dedicated 16-channel foot coil clicks gently around the foot.
- Earphones: Music or podcast to mask knocking sounds.
- Stillness: Keep foot motionless; each sequence lasts 3–5 minutes.
- Duration: 20–30 minutes total (add 10 minutes if contrast is used).
Caution Before Taking the Test
MRI Safety Questionnaire
- Tattoos: Inform if < 3 years old (some inks contain iron)
- Implants: List all surgeries, even dental screws
- Claustrophobia history: We offer mild sedation on request
Test Results
Results and Interpretations
| Finding / Observation | Example Specific Finding | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Bone marrow oedema | Bright signal on STIR | Stress fracture or infection |
| Ligaments | Complete discontinuity and fluid signal in the anterior talofibular ligament (ATFL) | Suggests a full-thickness ATFL tear—commonly associated with ankle sprains. May result in chronic ankle instability if untreated. Key injury in lateral ankle trauma. |
| Tendon discontinuity | Gap in tendon fibres | Full-thickness tear |
| Plantar fascia thickening | > 4 mm at insertion | Plantar fasciitis |
| Cartilage | Focal full-thickness cartilage loss and subchondral cyst formation at the talar dome | Indicates a chondral or osteochondral defect, often from trauma or degenerative changes. Can lead to pain, swelling, and reduced ankle range of motion. |
| Synovial hypertrophy | Enhancing fronds | Inflammatory arthritis |
| Soft-tissue mass | Well-defined, homogenous | Likely benign neuroma |
Risks & Limitations
Contrast Dye Considerations
- Gadolinium is safe in 99.9 % of patients
- Kidney function test (eGFR) required if eGFR < 30
Claustrophobia & Metal Implants
- Open-bore 3T scanner reduces claustrophobia
- MRI-safe implants (titanium screws, modern joint replacements) are fine
- Pacemakers & cochlear implants need screening first
FAQs
Is MRI foot painful?
No. The scan is painless; you only need to stay still.
Can I walk after the scan?
Yes. There are no restrictions unless you received sedation.
How much does an MRI foot cost?
Standard scan ₹6,500; with contrast ₹8,500. Insurance & cashless options available.
Do I need contrast?
Only if infection, tumour, or post-surgical scarring is suspected.
What if I’m claustrophobic?
We offer open-bore 3T, music, and mild sedation. Inform us when booking.