Dr. Michael Fox • Mar 04, 2020

5 Common Misconceptions of MRIs



Below are the most common misconceptions around MRIs you need to know: 

Since its introduction in 1977, MRI has truly become “the most powerful tool in clinical medicine since the discovery of the x ray”, as William Bradley, Jr. describes, who is the director of the MR Center at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center (Source: Nap Edu). However, since research is constantly ongoing and evolving around MRIs, communication can get misconstrued on the internet and in conversations with friends. Unfortunately, some of the things you read and hear are what we at Upright MRI of Deerfield call “just plain wrong”! 

We are here to debunk some of those myths. Below are the most common misconceptions around MRIs you need to know: 

1. All MRIs are the same. This is just plain wrong. There are multiple different types of MRIs but three common types are: open, closed and upright. In a closed MRI, the patient is completely closed in a large tube, which can often be problematic with claustrophobic patients. The upright MRI was created in attempt to increase comfort during the exam, because several people were having claustrophobic panic attacks in closed MRIs. The Fonar Upright Open MRI is what Upright MRI of Deerfield uses, which 1. is the one truly “open” MRI, and 2. allows patients to be imaged in multiple different positions, including standing, sitting, bending or lying down. While other open MRIs claim they are “open”, patients have noted it still feels like an enclosed experience and prefer the Upright MRI because it is truly open and completely comfortable, and also provides the upmost accurate results. 

2. You can get radiation exposure that can cause cancer from MRIs. This is also completely false! MRIs do not use radiation and are completely non-invasive, unlike X-rays, CT, and PET scans (Source: Harvard Edu). Instead, they use powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the human anatomy. This helps doctors take a look inside the problem and determine what the cause is without any harm to the patient. 

3. You have to go to the MRI your doctor recommends. There is often miscommunication when doctors are referring 
patients to an MRI. Although they might know of a hospital or clinic for you to go to which they have affiliations with, “it’s important for patients to know that they do not have to go to wherever their doctor has a relationship with. It is the patient’s choice, and they have options. They can and should go wherever they feel most comfortable,” says Dr. Michael Fox, Medical Director at Upright MRI of Deerfield. Whichever hospital or clinic you go to, the experience will vary, so it’s important to visit one that’s best for you. Patients do however need a referral and prescription from your doctor to get an MRI, so we recommend doing research on your own first, choosing an MRI, and letting your doctor know which clinic you have chosen so they can write you a referral for it. Our prescriptions can easily be downloaded and filled out here

4. MRIs are only used for injuries. Nope! A lot of the time when you hear about MRIs, it might be involving an injury, but it’s important to know MRIs can test several other things. Patients can be referred to study mental conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, certain cancers, brain tumors, infection, stroke, and tracking brains nerve paths (Medical News Today,Doctors Imaging). In addition, it can detect issues in the arteries and veins, including aneurysms, blockages of blood vessels, and more (Mayfield Clinic). Nearly every part of the body can be studied with an MRI, so please note this is not just for professional athletes like you may see on TV. 

5. Open MRIs are only for claustrophobic patients. Although the Open Upright MRI has had overwhelmingly positive responses from claustrophobic or very large patients, the feature that is considered the most commendable aspect of the scanner is the fact it is the only scanner that can scan patients in any position. This includes sitting, standing, bending or lying down. So while our MRI is definitely beneficial for patients who experience claustrophobia or just want to feel comfortable, it’s also recommended for patients who are experiencing pain in a specific area because we can position the patient to see exactly what that is and accurately diagnose what the issue is. 

In a nutshell, consult with your doctor before getting an MRI and choose one that feels right for you. Don’t listen to everything you hear from your friends, and if you have any questions about anything at all, that’s what we are here for. Feel free to contact us here

About Upright MRI of Deerfield: 
Dr. Michael Fox is the medical director and managing partner at Upright MRI of Deerfield. With over 33 years of experience as a physician and surgeon, he has dedicated his life to serving others. He has participated in several medical missions around the world doing surgery and treating patients in many under-developed countries and nowadays dedicates his life to Upright MRI, where he has worked for over a decade. He and his staff’s philosophy is to “treat every patient like they are a member of the family.” UMD is located in the northern suburbs of Chicago, just 30 miles north of the city. While UMD is most known for its open MRI, it additionally offers thermography services. To learn more about UMD and its services, please click here

SHARE THIS POST:

Leave a Comment:

Upright MRI of Deerfield

The World's Most Patient-Friendly MRI. A comfortable, stress-free, and completely reliable MRI scan. We offer patients an open, upright, standup MRI experience that helps those who are claustrophobic and stress being in a confined area. Upright MRI of Deerfield is recognized as the world leader in open MRI innovation,

LEARN MORE

Our Recent Post

MRI Brain Imaging
By Alan R 14 Apr, 2024
Prepare for peace of mind: Learn what to expect during MRI brain imaging, from pre-scan preparations to interpreting results, ensuring a smooth and informed experience.
Diagnosing Brain Conditions
By Alan R 07 Apr, 2024
Unlocking the mysteries of brain health: Discover how MRI aids in diagnosing brain conditions with precision and clarity.
What Insights Can MRI Foot Scans Provide?
By Alan R 18 Mar, 2024
Unlock valuable insights into foot health with MRI foot scans. Discover the intricate details of foot anatomy and function, aiding in the diagnosis of various conditions. I
By Alan R 06 Mar, 2024
MRI brain scans are an essential tool in modern medicine, offering detailed insights into the inner workings of the human brain. These scans serve a dual purpose: they allow healthcare professionals to visualize the anatomy of the brain with remarkable clarity, while also providing valuable information about brain function and potential abnormalities. In this article, we will explore the purpose and procedure of MRI brain scans, shedding light on why they are conducted and what patients can expect during the process. Understanding the Purpose of MRI Brain Scans At the heart of every MRI brain scan lies a simple yet profound goal: to help doctors see inside the brain without the need for invasive procedures. By harnessing the power of magnetic fields and radio waves, MRI technology generates highly detailed images of the brain's internal structures. These images can reveal important information about the size, shape, and condition of various brain regions, allowing doctors to diagnose a wide range of neurological conditions. One of the primary purposes of MRI brain scans is to detect abnormalities such as tumors, lesions, or areas of abnormal tissue growth. Unlike traditional imaging techniques like X-rays or CT scans, which provide only a limited view of the brain, MRI offers unparalleled clarity and precision. This makes it an invaluable tool for identifying potentially life-threatening conditions and guiding appropriate treatment strategies. But MRI brain scans aren't just about spotting problems they're also about understanding how the brain functions. By measuring factors like blood flow, oxygen levels, and neural activity, MRI can provide insights into brain health and performance. This information is particularly useful in cases of neurological disorders such as stroke, Alzheimer's disease, or epilepsy, where changes in brain function may precede visible structural changes.
Standard MRI
By Alan R 18 Feb, 2024
Discover the conditions overlooked by standard MRI scans. Explore the revolutionary technology that detects spinal, joint, and neurological issues in a natural, weight-bearing state.
By Alan R 11 Feb, 2024
In the realm of medical diagnostics, MRI scans have become indispensable tools for peering into the intricate landscapes of the human body. As technology advances, the traditional supine MRI, where patients lie flat, is being challenged by an innovative alternative – the Upright MRI. This article undertakes a comprehensive exploration, delving into the key distinctions between Upright and Traditional MRI scans and shedding light on how these differences can impact patient experience and diagnostic capabilities. Understanding Traditional MRI Traditional MRI, the stalwart of medical imaging, places patients in a horizontal position within a closed-bore scanner. While it has proven its worth in diagnosing various conditions, the closed design can be daunting for individuals with claustrophobia. The experience of being enclosed within the machine may result in discomfort and anxiety, potentially affecting the quality of the scan due to patient movement.
By Alan R 19 Jan, 2024
The intricate design of the human spine, while remarkable, is not exempt from the wear and tear of daily life. Spinal issues, ranging from herniated discs to spinal stenosis, can significantly impact one's mobility and overall well-being. In the realm of diagnostics, advanced tools play a pivotal role in unraveling the complexities of spinal conditions. This article takes a deep dive into the realm of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scans, shedding light on their significance in diagnosing spinal issues. Understanding Spinal Issues Navigating life with chronic back pain or debilitating spinal conditions can be an uphill battle. From herniated discs causing discomfort to spinal stenosis affecting everyday movements , the impact is profound. Accurate and timely diagnosis becomes paramount for effective treatment. Spinal health, often taken for granted, demands attention when issues arise. Here, we explore the essential role of MRI scans in unraveling the mysteries of spinal conditions.
By Alan R 10 Jan, 2024
In the intricate landscape of medical diagnostics, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) stands out as a powerful tool, particularly when it comes to examining the complexities of the back and spine. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the MRI process, providing patients with a deeper understanding of its significance in diagnosing various spinal conditions. If you've been recommended an MRI for your back or spine, this guide is your roadmap to navigating the procedure and interpreting the results. Understanding Back and Spine MRI Let's start by unraveling the mystery behind MRI technology. Unlike traditional X-rays or CT scans, which use ionizing radiation, MRI relies on powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. This non-invasive approach is especially beneficial for imaging the soft tissues of the back and spine , offering unparalleled clarity without exposing patients to harmful radiation.
The Importance of MRI in Diagnosing Brain Conditions
By Alan R 15 Dec, 2023
Explore the depths of diagnostic precision with our guide, highlighting the crucial role MRI plays in unveiling and understanding various neurological challenges.
Understanding MRI Foot Scans
By Alan R 02 Dec, 2023
Uncover the intricate details of foot health with our guide, highlighting the importance of MRI in understanding and diagnosing various conditions.
SEE MORE POSTS

READ PATIENT TESTIMONIALS

Upright MRI of Deerfield.



Susan D.,

Highland Park, 39

I am going to tell everyone about your office! This was a great experience after I panicked in other MRI machines and had to leave. Thank you so much.

Judith B.,

Milwaukee, 61

I suffer from vertigo and other MRIs do not work. This was wonderful…absolutely NO discomfort at all. The MRI was so fast…I wanted to stay and watch the movie! Mumtaz was great. His humor really put me at ease. I’ve already recommended Upright MRI to friends.

Delores P.,

Glencoe, 55

Everything is so nice and professional with your place. I have been there a couple of times. My husband and I would not go anywhere else.

SEE ALL TESTIMONIALS
Share by: