MRI Hip Scan
An MRI hip scan is used for hip pain that hasn't resolved with rest and physiotherapy, or when X-rays are inconclusive. It's particularly useful for detecting labral tears and avascular necrosis — both of which are missed on plain radiographs but have specific, time-sensitive treatment pathways.
Written by the MyScanHub content team3 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 Hip Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Hip Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The head and neck of the femur (thigh bone)
- The acetabulum (socket of the hip bone)
- The labrum (cartilage rim of the hip socket)
- The joint capsule and ligaments
- The surrounding muscles (e.g., gluteals, hip flexors)
- The sciatic nerve and other nearby nerves
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the hip joint.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent hip pain, especially with movement
- Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the hip
- A clicking, catching, or locking sensation in the hip
- Pain radiating down the thigh or into the groin
- Difficulty bearing weight on the affected leg
- Swelling or tenderness around the hip joint
- A history of hip injury or trauma
What an MRI Hip Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Labral tears
- Avascular necrosis
- Hip impingement (FAI)
- Early osteoarthritis
- Stress fractures
- Bursitis and tendinopathy
Preparing for your MRI Hip Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Remove all metal jewellery and accessories before entering the scanning room.
- You'll be asked to complete a safety questionnaire.
- Eat and take your usual medications unless advised otherwise by our team.
- Wear comfortable clothing; you may be given a gown to change into.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator, please inform us immediately.
- Mention any metal implants, clips, or fragments in your body, especially near the hip or eyes.
- Let us know if you have certain types of cochlear implants or artificial joints.
- If you are pregnant, particularly in the first trimester, please tell us.
- If you experience severe claustrophobia, discuss this with us beforehand.
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 hip joint?
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 hip MRI take?
A typical MRI scan of the hip takes around 30–45 minutes to complete. We will confirm the exact duration when you book.
Will I need contrast dye for my hip MRI?
Contrast dye is not always necessary for a hip MRI and is only used if clinically required by your referring clinician or our reporting radiologist. If needed, it's an optional add-on and will be discussed with you before your appointment.
Can I self-refer for a hip MRI?
Yes, you can book a private MRI hip scan directly with MyScanHub without needing a GP referral. Our team will guide you through the process.
What happens after my scan?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You'll receive a comprehensive report within 3 working days, accessible via your secure online patient portal. You can view, download, and share these results, or we can send them to your GP.
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 Hip 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