MRI upper extremity (without contrast) Diagnostic Imaging

An MRI of the upper extremity without contrast uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand.

MRI upper extremity (without contrast) procedure illustration

Overview

An MRI of the upper extremity without contrast uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand. "Without contrast" means no gadolinium dye is injected. This test helps show soft tissues like muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, nerves, and bone marrow. It is often ordered to look for injury, inflammation, or other changes that are not clear on X-rays or sometimes even on CT scans.

Overview Preparation Clinical Info Recovery FAQ References

Also known as: Non-contrast upper extremity MRI, MRI arm without contrast, MRI shoulder without contrast, MRI elbow without contrast, MRI wrist without contrast, MRI hand without contrast

Recovery
Same day
Return to Work
Same day

Preparation & Next Steps

Everything you need to know before and after your procedure

Before Care

  • Complete the MRI safety screening and report any implants, prior surgeries, metal fragments, or occupational metal exposure.
  • Bring implant or device ID cards and contact details for the implanting clinician.
  • Remove jewelry, piercings, watches, hearing aids, hairpins, and other metal items before the scan.
  • Wear comfortable clothing without metal zippers or snaps; you may be asked to change into a gown.
  • Avoid makeup, glitter, or hair products that may contain metal particles on the day of the exam.
  • Tell the staff if you are or might be pregnant, or if you have significant claustrophobia.
  • Discuss options such as music, an open MRI, or calming medicine; arrange a licensed driver if sedation is planned.
  • Bring prior imaging CDs or reports of the same body part if available.
  • Plan for 30 to 60 minutes in the scanner, plus time for check-in and positioning.
  • Follow any facility instructions; fasting is usually not required for a non-contrast MRI.

After Care

  • Resume normal eating, drinking, and daily activities after the scan.
  • If you took a sedative or anti-anxiety medicine, do not drive and use a prearranged ride until the effects wear off.
  • Temporary ear fullness from earplugs or headphones should fade shortly after the exam.
  • If an IV or monitoring leads were used, keep the site clean and dry and report persistent redness or pain to the facility.
  • Store your device ID cards and any new safety information for future imaging visits.
  • Your images are read by a radiologist; a report is sent to your referring clinician, often within 1 to 3 business days.
  • Use your patient portal or the imaging center’s instructions to find out when and how results will be available.
  • Contact the imaging center if you notice unexpected skin warmth, redness, or discomfort at a contact point after the scan.
  • Schedule any follow-up appointments your clinician has ordered once results are available.

Clinical Information

Important medical details about this procedure

Indications

  • Pain, swelling, or stiffness in the shoulder, arm, elbow, wrist, or hand
  • Suspected tendon or ligament injury (for example, rotator cuff or TFCC tear)
  • Evaluation of cartilage, labrum, or joint issues
  • Stress fracture or bone bruise not seen on X-ray
  • Nerve compression or entrapment concerns
  • Masses or lumps in soft tissue
  • Possible infection or inflammatory conditions
  • Pre-surgical planning or post-operative assessment

Alternatives

  • X-ray to assess bones and joint alignment
  • Ultrasound for tendons, fluid collections, and some soft tissues
  • CT scan for detailed bone evaluation
  • Physical therapy and watchful waiting when appropriate
  • Electrodiagnostic tests (EMG/NCS) for nerve issues
  • MRI with contrast or MR arthrography when better tissue detail is needed

Risks

  • Loud tapping and thumping sounds during the scan
  • Feeling confined or anxious in the scanner
  • Heating or burns if metal objects or some patches are on the skin
  • Interference with certain implants or devices if not MRI-conditional
  • Incidental findings that may need more tests
  • No exposure to ionizing radiation

Contraindications

  • Non–MRI-conditional pacemakers or defibrillators
  • Certain aneurysm clips or metallic implants not approved for MRI
  • Retained metal fragments, especially in or near the eyes
  • Some implanted pumps, stimulators, or older cochlear implants
  • Inability to lie still or severe claustrophobia without support

Recovery Timeline

What to expect during your recovery

Most people feel fine right after a non-contrast MRI and return to normal activities the same day. There is no medical recovery period expected.

Typical Range

Same day

Return to Work

Same day

Recovery Milestones

Day 0

Resume normal daily activities

Day 0

Travel home and eat or drink as usual

Day 0–1

If sedation was used, plan quiet rest and avoid driving until effects wear off

Day 1–14

Review the radiology report and next steps with your clinician

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions and expert answers about this procedure

What does "without contrast" mean?

No gadolinium dye is injected. The MRI uses magnets and radio waves only, which helps avoid contrast-related risks.

Which body parts are covered by an upper extremity MRI?

It can image the shoulder, arm, elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand. The order usually targets one specific area.

How long does the scan take?

Plan for about 30 to 60 minutes in the scanner, depending on the body part and the number of image sequences.

Will I be exposed to radiation?

No. MRI does not use ionizing radiation. It uses a magnetic field and radiofrequency energy to make images.

What if I have a pacemaker or metal implant?

Many devices are MRI-conditional. The team will check your device model and follow safety steps or choose another test if needed.

What if I am claustrophobic?

Options may include an open or wider-bore scanner, music, a support person, or a prescribed calming medicine with a planned ride home.

Does the test hurt?

The scan is painless. You will hear loud knocking sounds and need to lie still so the images are clear.

Why would contrast sometimes be used instead?

Contrast can highlight tumors, infection, scars, or post-surgical changes. Your clinician and radiologist choose it when it adds useful detail.