MRI Shoulder Both Scan
A private MRI scan of both your shoulders uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the bones, muscles, ligaments, and tendons around your shoulder joints. This non-invasive imaging technique helps visualise internal structures without using ionising radiation.
Written by the MyScanHub content team3 minutes reading time
From
£495
All-inclusive. Consultant-reported within 3 working days.
- Consultant radiologists
- CQC registered
- GDPR compliant
- Report in 3 working days
What is an MRI Shoulder Both 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 Both Scan allows your radiologist to examine:
- Rotator cuff tendons and muscles
- Biceps tendon
- Shoulder labrum (cartilage rim)
- Glenohumeral joint capsule
- Acromioclavicular (AC) joint
- Bone and cartilage surfaces
MRI offers unmatched soft-tissue contrast and is widely used in specialist care for diagnosing and following-up disease of the shoulder both.
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
- A clicking, popping, or grinding sensation
- Weakness when lifting or moving your arm
- A history of shoulder injury or dislocation
- Pain that doesn't improve with rest or simple treatments
- Swelling or tenderness around the shoulder joint
What an MRI Shoulder Both Scan can find
MRI can identify:
- Tears or inflammation in tendons and muscles
- Labral tears (e.g., SLAP tears)
- Ligament injuries
- Arthritis and cartilage damage
- Fluid collections or swelling
- Bursitis
- Bone spurs
Preparing for your MRI Shoulder Both Scan
On the day of your scan:
- Remove all jewellery and metal objects before entering the scanning room.
- Wear comfortable clothing without metal fasteners if possible.
- You will be asked to complete a safety questionnaire.
- Eat and take your usual medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician.
Please notify the team if:
- You have a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.
- You have certain types of cochlear implants or inner ear implants.
- You have any metal fragments in your eyes or body (e.g., from previous injury or surgery).
- You are pregnant, especially in the first trimester.
- You experience 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 both?
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 shoulder scan take?
A single-part MRI scan of your shoulders typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Your appointment may be longer to allow for preparation and discussion.
Can I have a scan if I have metal implants?
Many modern implants are MRI-compatible, but it's crucial to inform us about any metal implants or fragments you have. We will assess your specific situation to ensure your safety.
Will I need contrast dye for my shoulder MRI?
Contrast dye (gadolinium) is sometimes used to highlight specific structures like tendons or ligaments more clearly. This is an optional add-on and will only be recommended if clinically necessary, following discussion with your referring clinician or our team.
What happens after my scan?
Your scan images will be reviewed by a UK-certified Consultant Radiologist. You will receive your detailed report within 3 working days via a secure online portal, which you can access, download, and share with your GP or other healthcare professionals.
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 Both 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