Scan Types / MRI Ankle Scan
MRI Ankle Scan
An MRI of the ankle is a precise imaging test that examines the bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and soft tissues of your ankle joint. Whether your pain is in the left, right, or both ankles, this scan offers a non-invasive way to diagnose injuries and chronic conditions.
What is an MRI ankle scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses magnetic fields and radio waves — not radiation — to generate detailed, cross-sectional images of internal structures.
An ankle MRI provides a complete view of:
- The talus, tibia, fibula, and surrounding joints
- Ligaments (including the ATFL, PTFL, and deltoid ligament)
- Achilles and peroneal tendons
- Cartilage and soft tissue
- Joint fluid and inflammation
Scans can be performed for:
- Left ankle
- Right ankle
- Both ankles (bilateral) when symptoms are present on both sides
Why consider a private MRI scan for the ankle?
The ankle is one of the most injury-prone joints in the body. While X-rays can show bone breaks, they often miss soft tissue damage, which is where MRI excels.
Why go private?
- Rapid appointments (often within 7 days)
- Clearer soft tissue diagnosis than ultrasound or X-ray
- Specialist interpretation for sports injuries and chronic conditions
- Crucial for surgical or physiotherapy planning
- Ideal for athletes, post-trauma evaluation, or recurring pain
Symptoms that may warrant an ankle MRI
Book an MRI scan if you experience:
- Persistent ankle pain (especially after injury)
- Swelling that won’t go down
- Ankle instability or weakness
- Pain while walking, running, or standing
- Clicking, popping, or locking sensations
- Suspected ligament, tendon, or cartilage damage
What can an ankle MRI detect?
MRI imaging can help diagnose:
- Ligament sprains and tears
- Achilles or peroneal tendon injuries
- Osteochondral lesions or cartilage damage
- Post-traumatic bone bruises or edema
- Joint inflammation or effusion
- Synovitis, cysts, or ganglion masses
- Stress fractures or arthritis
Preparing for your ankle MRI
To prepare:
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing
- Remove jewelry and metallic items
- You may eat, drink, and take medications normally
- Bring prior imaging or sports injury history if relevant
Please notify the team if you have:
- You have ankle implants or metal plates
- Pacemaker, defibrillator, or cochlear implants
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- You feel anxious or claustrophobic (sedation available)
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Pricing for a private ankle MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
One Ankle (Left or Right)
Scan of a single ankle
£295
Both Ankles (Bilateral)
Complete scan of both Ankles
£495
With Contrast (One/Both)
Includes Gadolinium contrast if indicated
£495 / £695
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
FAQs
Got a question? Check below to find the answer.
We’re an independent diagnostic centre in Dartford offering same-day private MRI with UK-consultant reporting and transparent self-pay pricing.
No-self-referral is welcome. If you already have a referral letter, upload it at checkout.
Prices start at £150 for single-area Off-Peak scans. Your fee covers the scan, double-reading, and unlimited portal access.
Many insurers reimburse private MRI. We provide the codes and receipts you need to claim.
Call 01322 - MRI - NOW, start a live chat, or email hello@myscanhub.co.uk.