MRI Forearm Scan
A private MRI scan of your forearm uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the muscles, tendons, nerves, and bones in your arm. This non-invasive scan is performed without ionising radiation and can help investigate pain or injury in this area.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Left sideBook
£295
- Right sideBook
£295
- Both sidesBook
£495
What is an MRI Forearm Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Forearm Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- Muscles (e.g., biceps, triceps, forearm flexors and extensors)
- Tendons (e.g., rotator cuff tendons, elbow tendons)
- Nerves (e.g., median, ulnar, radial nerves)
- Ligaments
- Bones (e.g., humerus, radius, ulna)
- Blood vessels
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the forearm.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent pain in the forearm or elbow
- Swelling or bruising without a clear cause
- Weakness or reduced grip strength
- Numbness or tingling sensations in the forearm or hand
- A lump or swelling felt in the arm
- Difficulty moving the arm or wrist
- Pain following an injury or trauma
- Suspected nerve compression
What an MRI Forearm Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Tendon tears or inflammation (tendinopathy)
- Muscle strains or tears
- Nerve entrapment (like carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome)
- Ligament injuries
- Bone or soft tissue abnormalities
- Fluid collections (e.g., cysts or effusions)
- Effects of previous injury or surgery
Preparing for your MRI Forearm Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Remove all metal jewellery and accessories before entering the scanning room.
- Complete a safety questionnaire to ensure the MRI is suitable for you.
- You can typically eat and take your usual medications beforehand unless advised otherwise.
- Wear comfortable clothing; specific gowns may be provided.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, or any implanted electronic devices.
- If you have certain types of aneurysm clips or metal fragments in your body (especially the eyes).
- If you have ever worked with metal or had an injury involving metal fragments.
- If you are pregnant, especially in the first trimester, or suspect you might be.
- If you experience severe claustrophobia; we offer support for anxious patients.
Your report
Every MRI at MyScanHub is reported by a GMC-registered consultant radiologist. Your written report is delivered securely to your patient portal within 3 working days.
You can download the report and your images from your patient account to share with your GP, physiotherapist or specialist, or add a GP consultation to talk the findings through. How to open and share your results.
Why consider a private MRI scan for the forearm?
When you need answers quickly — or when prior imaging has been inconclusive — a private MRI at MyScanHub gives you timely access and specialist reporting without the wait.
Private scan benefits include:
- Fast access — same-day or next-day appointments, no waiting list
- Consultant radiologist report within 3 working days
- Fully-private, CQC-registered, GDPR-compliant imaging centre
- Secure online access to your report and images, easy to share with your GP or specialist
Smarter scanning. Proactive health. Peace of mind.
Step 1
Choose
Pick a scan or a programme. No GP referral required.
Step 2
Book
Select a time online — same-day availability most weekdays.
Step 3
Scan
Be seen by consultants at our Dartford, Kent imaging centre.
Step 4
Results
Consultant-led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a forearm MRI take?
A typical MRI scan of a single body part, like the forearm, takes between 30 to 45 minutes. Your appointment may be slightly longer to allow for preparation and positioning.
Will I get my MRI results immediately?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You can expect to receive your detailed report within 3 working days, accessible via your secure online patient portal. You can then share this with your GP or another clinician.
Can I have contrast dye for my forearm MRI?
A gadolinium contrast agent can be added for an additional fee if clinically required, but this needs to be confirmed as necessary before booking. Your referring clinician or our team can advise if contrast is appropriate for your situation.
Is an MRI scan painful?
No, the MRI scan itself is painless. You may hear loud tapping or knocking noises from the scanner, and some people feel a slight warmth in the area being scanned. We ensure you are comfortable throughout the procedure.
Do I need a GP referral?
No — MyScanHub accepts self-referral for most scans. Our consultant radiologists review every case. Some scans (e.g. contrast studies) do need a referring clinician; we'll let you know at booking.
When will I get my report?
Written reports from a GMC-registered consultant radiologist are delivered within 3 working days of your scan, often sooner. You can access the report — and the imaging — through your patient account at myscanhub.com.
Where is the clinic?
Our imaging centre is at Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford, Kent (DA9 9ST), in the Guildhall Outer Car Park — free parking, a few minutes from junction 2 of the M25 and the A2. We're open Monday to Saturday 8am–9pm and Sunday 10am–5pm. Full directions are sent with your booking confirmation.
Ready to book your MRI Forearm Scan?
Book online in minutes. Same-day and next-day slots available most weekdays in Dartford, Kent. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
At our clinic in Bluewater Shopping Centre, Dartford: free parking, open seven days. How to find us · All private MRI scans in Dartford & Kent