Shoulder pain can start off as a mild annoyance—perhaps a twinge when lifting something overhead or discomfort when reaching behind your back. But when that pain lingers, worsens, or begins to interfere with your daily activities, it may be a sign of something more serious.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we often see patients who’ve been living with unexplained shoulder discomfort for weeks or even months. If rest, medication, or physiotherapy hasn’t worked, your doctor may recommend an MRI to uncover the root cause of the problem.

Let’s explore when an MRI might be necessary, what the scan can reveal, and what to expect from the process.

Why Shoulder Pain Sometimes Needs More Than Rest

Shoulder pain can arise from many causes—minor strain, inflammation, injury, or age-related wear and tear. In many cases, these issues improve with conservative treatment. But when symptoms persist or worsen, it may indicate conditions such as:

• Rotator cuff tears
• Tendinitis or bursitis
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Labral tears
• Shoulder impingement
• Joint degeneration or arthritis
• Hidden fractures or dislocations

Because the shoulder is a complex joint surrounded by muscles, tendons, and ligaments, it can be difficult to pinpoint the issue with a physical exam alone. That’s where imaging comes in.

What Is an MRI and How Can It Help?

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging—a safe, non-invasive test that uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues. Unlike X-rays, which show bones, an MRI can visualize:

• Tendon and muscle injuries
• Ligament tears
• Inflammation or swelling
• Fluid build-up in the joint
• Cartilage damage or joint degeneration

This clarity allows your doctor at DRHC Dubai to make an accurate diagnosis and recommend the most effective treatment—whether that’s targeted physiotherapy, injections, or surgery (when needed).

When Should You Consider an MRI for Shoulder Pain?

Not every case of shoulder pain needs an MRI. However, your doctor may recommend a scan if:

• Pain lasts more than 4–6 weeks despite rest and therapy
• You experience weakness, clicking, or instability in the shoulder
• Night pain is affecting your sleep
• There was a recent fall or injury (even if X-rays were normal)
• Your range of motion is significantly limited
• Previous treatments haven’t brought relief

If these apply to you, an MRI can provide the answers needed to guide your recovery.

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