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X-Ray Vs MRI for Knee Pain: Get Familiar with Both

man wearing a knee brace for managing a knee injury in Watkinsville, GA.
Whether you are a runner, an athlete or an older person who’s experiencing changes in your body, you’ve probably felt discomfort or a sting in your knees. They are subject to a lot of wear-and-tear, which results in injuries or chronic health conditions. When you’re facing one of these situations, your doctor’s first priority will be observing what’s inside the targeted area. X-rays and MRIs are commonly used for knee pain as diagnostic imaging services, but depending on your case, one may be more helpful than the other. At Arch Orthopedic & Spine, we’d like to share with you a 101 guide on these scans.
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XRay vs MRI

These two diagnostic techniques share something in common一they show you how your bones, organs and other internal parts of your body look, and if there’s a present health issue like a tumor or an injury. But what are the core characteristics that set them apart?

Meet X-rays

X-rays are a type of radiation also known as electromagnetic waves, that can create black and white “photographs” of the structure inside your body. They are performed and interpreted by a radiologist who can identify if there’s anything wrong with your bones or your joints. Since x-rays emit a moderate level of radiation, it’s not recommended for patients to use this technique more than once, especially for pregnant women.

Meet MRIs

MRIs produce detailed 3D images of every internal structure in the human body, including the organs, bones, muscles and blood vessels. Instead of radiation, it simply uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to reflect the visuals. Normally, doctors prefer to use it for patients who need frequent imaging for treatment monitoring.

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Why Are They Used For Knee Pain?

Imaging scans are often used to examine and detect diseases and injuries. In the case of x-rays, they are used to visualize bone structures, degenerative conditions, fractures, dislocations, infections and tumors that may be the cause of your knee pain. They can show signs of:

  • Knee fractures.
  • Joint dislocation.
  • Excess fluid.
  • Loose pieces of bone.
  • Bone spurs.
  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Abnormal alignment of your knee joint.
  • Bone infections.
  • Bone thinning.
  • Bone cancer.

If you’re still presenting knee pain after your x-ray, an MRI is a great way to have a more detailed look at the affected joint in your body. Normally, patients go for an MRI for the next reasons:

  • Persistent symptoms, even after a medical treatment.
  • Swelling and pain post-surgery.
  • Clicking sensation in your knee bones.
  • Not being able to lock your knee.
  • Instability or “slipping” of your knee. 

How They Work

X-rays

The part of the body that’s being examined is placed between an x-radiation source and the photographic plates. As the radiation goes through the body, the bones and other dense parts appear white on the imaging, reflecting the internal bodily structures through the x-ray film. 

MRIs

MRIs produce high-quality pictures of the inside of the patient’s body by using high-frequency pulses and strong magnets. The machines used for this process are big, and as the patient goes inside, the magnet aligns your molecules to project them for the doctors.

Book Your X-Ray And MRI Appointment in Georgia

If you are experiencing knee pain and need an accurate diagnosis, you can book your x-ray or MRI appointment with us. At Arch Orthopedic & Spine, our team of specialists can identify what’s going on with your joint health and provide you the treatment that you need to walk comfortably again. If you are in Watkinsville, Georgia, you can contact us by sending a message online.

Persistent Pain? Consult our Specialists at Arch Orthopedic & Spine

Aging is inevitable, but pain doesn’t mean it has to be a permanent part of your life. If your pain persists, worsens, or begins to interfere with your daily life, it’s important to consult a professional. The specialists at Arch Orthopedic & Spine are here to help you recover. Please feel free to call us at 706-389-8941 if you have any questions or to schedule an appointment at our Loganville or Watkinsville clinics.

Arch - Providers - William Ashford, MD
William Ashford, MD

William Ashford, MD, is the lead orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist at Arch Orthopedic & Spine in Watkinsville and Loganville, Georgia. In his years in the field, he has applied his medical expertise and surgical experience to treat musculoskeletal injuries that hinder individuals’ active lifestyle.