Scan Types / MRI Wrist Scan
MRI Wrist Scan
An MRI of the wrist provides a highly detailed image of the bones, ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and soft tissues. Whether your symptoms are on the left, right, or both wrists, this scan is a gold-standard solution for diagnosing unresolved pain, trauma, or structural abnormalities.
What is an MRI wrist scan?
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency pulses — not radiation — to visualize structures inside your wrist joint with clarity unmatched by X-rays or ultrasound.
A wrist MRI is ideal for examining:
- Carpal bones
- Ligaments (e.g., scapholunate, TFCC)
- Tendons (e.g., extensor and flexor compartments)
- Joint cartilage and synovial fluid
- Nerves, especially in carpal tunnel syndrome
Scans can be performed for:
- Left wrist
- Right wrist
- Both wrists (bilateral)
Why consider a private MRI scan for the wrist?
The wrist contains many small bones and complex ligamentous connections — making accurate imaging critical. MRI offers a clear diagnosis where physical exams and X-rays may fall short.
Private MRI benefits:
- Rapid appointments (often same-week availability)
- High-resolution scans ideal for sports, trauma, or work-related injuries
- Radiologist-reviewed results in just 3 days
- Planning tool for surgery or targeted steroid injections
Symptoms that may warrant a wrist MRI
This scan is suitable if you’re experiencing:
- Persistent wrist pain (with or without trauma)
- Clicking, catching, or locking sensations
- Weak grip or instability
- Swelling or tenderness without a clear cause
- Numbness or tingling (suspected nerve compression)
- Suspected tendon, cartilage, or ligament injury
What can a wrist MRI detect?
MRI is excellent for detecting:
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears
- Ligament injuries (e.g., scapholunate disruption)
- Carpal tunnel syndrome (median nerve compression)
- Tendonitis or tenosynovitis
- Osteoarthritis or cartilage damage
- Synovial cysts or ganglion masses
- Early signs of rheumatoid arthritis or infection
Preparing for your wrist MRI
To prepare:
- Wear loose, metal-free clothing
- Remove jewelry and metallic items
- You may eat, drink, and take medications normally
- Prior imaging or referrals can be helpful
Please notify the team if you have:
- Metal pins or plates in your wrist
- Medical implants like pacemakers
- Pregnancy (especially first trimester)
- Claustrophobia (sedation can be arranged)
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Pricing for a private wrist MRI scan
Our transparent self-pay pricing options:
Includes detailed radiologist report within 3 working days.
One Wrist (Left or Right)
MRI scan for a single Wrist
£295
Both Wrists (Bilateral)
Scan of both wrists in one session
£495
With Contrast (One/Both)
Includes contrast (Gadolinium), if required
£495 / £695
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
FAQs
Got a question? Check below to find the answer.
We’re an independent diagnostic centre in Dartford offering same-day private MRI with UK-consultant reporting and transparent self-pay pricing.
No-self-referral is welcome. If you already have a referral letter, upload it at checkout.
Prices start at £150 for single-area Off-Peak scans. Your fee covers the scan, double-reading, and unlimited portal access.
Many insurers reimburse private MRI. We provide the codes and receipts you need to claim.
Call 01322 - MRI - NOW, start a live chat, or email hello@myscanhub.co.uk.