MRI Shoulder Scan
An MRI shoulder scan is the preferred imaging for persistent shoulder pain, weakness, or instability — especially where rotator cuff pathology, labral injury, or post-traumatic change is suspected. Images are reviewed by our consultant musculoskeletal radiologists with a written report delivered within 3 working days.
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 Shoulder Scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves — with no ionising radiation — to create high-resolution cross-sectional images.
An MRI Shoulder Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- Rotator cuff tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor, subscapularis)
- Biceps tendon
- Labrum (the cartilage rim around the shoulder socket)
- Shoulder capsule and ligaments (e.g., glenohumeral ligaments)
- Shoulder joint surfaces and bones (humerus, scapula, clavicle)
- Bursae and surrounding soft tissues
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the shoulder.
Is this scan right for you?
Common reasons for having this scan include:
- Persistent shoulder pain, especially with movement
- Reduced range of motion or stiffness
- Weakness when lifting or moving the arm
- A clicking, popping, or grinding sensation
- Instability or a feeling of the shoulder 'giving way'
- Pain following an injury or trauma
- Swelling or bruising around the shoulder joint
What an MRI Shoulder Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Rotator cuff tears
- Labral tears (SLAP / Bankart)
- Impingement syndrome and bursitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Osteoarthritis and AC-joint disease
Preparing for your MRI Shoulder Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Please wear comfortable clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown.
- Remove all jewellery, watches, and metal objects before entering the scan room.
- Eat and take your usual medications unless advised otherwise by our team.
Please notify the team if:
- If you have a pacemaker, defibrillator, or any implanted electronic device.
- If you have certain types of surgical implants, clips, or metal fragments (especially in the eyes).
- If you are pregnant, particularly in the first trimester.
- If you suffer from severe claustrophobia.
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 shoulder?
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 shoulder MRI take?
A typical MRI scan of a single body part, like the shoulder, takes between 30 and 45 minutes to complete. Your appointment will be longer to allow for preparation and discussion.
Do I need a referral for a private MRI shoulder scan?
No, a GP referral is not required. You can self-refer for your MRI scan. You will receive a report from a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist, which you can share with your GP or a specialist.
Can I have an MRI if I have metal in my body?
This depends on the type of metal and its location. Certain implants are MRI-safe, while others are not. It’s crucial to inform our team about any metal in your body during the pre-scan screening so we can assess your suitability.
What happens after my scan?
Your scan images and a detailed report from a Consultant Radiologist will be uploaded to your secure online patient portal, usually within 3 working days. You can view, download, and share these results. We can also send the report to your GP if you wish.
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 Shoulder 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