MRI Sacroiliac Joints Scan
An MRI scan of your sacroiliac (SI) joints uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of these crucial pelvic joints, offering a clear view without using ionising radiation.
Written by the MyScanHub content team4 minutes reading time
From
£295
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRI Sacroiliac Joints Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Sacroiliac Joints Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- The sacroiliac joints themselves, including the joint space and surfaces.
- The surrounding ligaments that support the SI joints.
- The sacrum and ilium bones where they form the joints.
- Adjacent soft tissues, such as muscles and tendons near the SI joints.
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the sacroiliac joints.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent lower back pain, particularly if it's worse in the morning or after rest.
- Pain that radiates into the buttocks or down one or both legs.
- Stiffness in the lower back or hips, especially upon waking.
- Pain that improves with activity but worsens with inactivity.
- A feeling of instability or clicking in the pelvic area.
- Pain that makes it difficult to stand up from a seated position.
- A history of injury to the lower back or pelvis.
- Symptoms suggestive of inflammatory conditions affecting the spine and pelvis.
What an MRI Sacroiliac Joints Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Inflammation within the SI joints, which can be a sign of conditions like sacroiliitis.
- Degenerative changes or arthritis affecting the joint surfaces.
- Fluid collections or swelling around the joints.
- Stress fractures or other bone abnormalities in the sacrum or ilium.
- Ligament tears or sprains contributing to joint instability.
- Possible signs of infection or other less common joint pathologies.
Preparing for your MRI Sacroiliac Joints Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Please remove all jewellery and metal objects before your scan.
- You'll be asked to complete a safety questionnaire.
- Eat and take your usual medications as normal, unless advised otherwise.
- Wear comfortable clothing; we may provide a gown if needed.
Please notify the team if:
- Pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, or other cardiac devices.
- Certain types of cochlear implants or inner ear implants.
- Metal fragments in the eyes or body (e.g., from previous injury or surgery).
- Aneurysm clips or shunts.
- Pregnancy, especially if you are in the first trimester.
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 sacroiliac joints?
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 an MRI of the sacroiliac joints take?
A typical MRI scan of the sacroiliac joints takes between 30 to 45 minutes for the scan itself. Your appointment will be longer to allow for preparation and for you to get settled.
Will I need contrast dye for my SI joint MRI?
Contrast dye is not always necessary for SI joint scans. If your referring clinician believes it's needed to highlight certain tissues or inflammation, it can be added for an additional charge. This will be discussed with you before booking.
Can I have an MRI if I have metal in my body?
Many implants are MRI-safe, but it's crucial to inform us about any metal implants or fragments you have. We will check each item individually to ensure your safety before the scan proceeds.
What happens after my SI joint MRI scan?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You'll receive your detailed report within 3 working days via your secure online patient portal, which you can access, download, and share with your GP or specialist.
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 Sacroiliac Joints 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