MRI of the Shoulder, in plain English.
A shoulder MRI shows the ball-and-socket joint, the four rotator cuff muscles that stabilise it, the labrum (the rim of cartilage inside the socket), and the surrounding tendons.
Why doctors order this scan
- Shoulder pain that is not settling in 4-6 weeks
- Difficulty lifting the arm or reaching behind the back
- After a fall on an outstretched hand or a dislocation
- Before shoulder surgery
What this MRI actually shows
- •The four rotator cuff tendons (supraspinatus, infraspinatus, subscapularis, teres minor)
- •The labrum inside the socket
- •The biceps tendon
- •The bones — humerus, glenoid, acromion
Common findings, decoded
These are the words you are most likely to see. They sound scarier than they usually are.
- Rotator cuff tendinosis
- The tendon is worn and thickened. Not the same as a tear.
- Partial-thickness tear
- The tendon is torn part-way through. Often manageable without surgery.
- Full-thickness tear
- The tendon is torn all the way through.
- Impingement
- The tendon is being pinched under a bony arch when you lift your arm.
- SLAP lesion
- A tear at the top rim of the socket, where the biceps attaches.
Words that usually deserve a doctor conversation
If you see any of these on your report, it does not mean an emergency — but do not ignore them either. Book a follow-up.
How to prepare for the scan
- •No fasting for a plain shoulder MRI
- •Wear a t-shirt or hospital gown; remove all jewellery
- •If MR arthrogram is planned, a small injection into the joint will be given first
- •Scan takes 25-35 minutes
Questions worth asking your doctor
- 1Is this a wear-and-tear finding or a real tear?
- 2Will physiotherapy be enough for me?
- 3How long before I can lift my arm properly again?
- 4Is a steroid injection an option?
In an Indian context
Frozen shoulder and rotator cuff wear are extremely common in Indian adults over 40, especially in people with diabetes. Most improve without surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Do all rotator cuff tears need surgery?+
No. Small partial tears and tears in older adults with mild pain are often managed with physiotherapy, activity change, and sometimes an injection. Full-thickness tears in active adults are more likely to need surgical repair.
How much does a shoulder MRI cost in India?+
A plain shoulder MRI in India typically costs ₹3,500-₹8,000. An MR arthrogram (with contrast injected into the joint) is more expensive.
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MRIdecoder is an educational tool. It does not diagnose or replace a qualified radiologist or physician. Always confirm findings and treatment with your doctor.