Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan (MRI)
A magnetic resonance imaging scan, or MRI, is used to see small changes in the body that cannot be seen with a normal x-ray. Magnets and radio waves are used to make a computer picture of the parts of the body the doctor wants to study.

If you have myositis, the doctor may study the affected muscles using an MRI to get a better picture of any muscle damage.

What are the benefits? Possible side effects?
With an MRI, patients are not exposed to radiation like they are with the traditional x-ray. An MRI is also more accurate in finding what may be causing your pain or weakness.

There are no known side effects with an MRI, but some people should not have these scans. Pregnant women are advised not to have MRIs. If you have any foreign materials in your body, including artificial limbs or joints, tell your doctor. If you have a pacemaker, chemotherapy or insulin pumps, or any metal implants or chips, you cannot have an MRI because of the magnets used. Be sure to tell your doctor anything you feel may affect the test.

How do I prepare for this test?
You may be given a sedative to calm you down if you are nervous about the test. If you are claustrophobic, or scared to be in closed places, tell your doctor. You must stay still throughout the test, so it’s important to stay relaxed and breathe normally. You will be told how to let the doctor or other medical staff know if you need to come out of the scan.

How is it done?
You will need to lie still in a closed tube for 30 to 90 minutes, depending on what parts of the body are being studied. You will hear a loud clicking noise during the test. You will be placed into the tunnel-like tube where the magnet and radio waves will work together to produce a detailed image for the doctor to study. If the doctor needs to see more detail, you may be given an IV with a special liquid to improve the images.

Will it hurt?
An MRI will not hurt, but you may feel nervous in the closed tube. Try to relax and stay calm throughout the test.

What do the results mean?
Your doctor will talk to you about your MRI after he or she has looked over the pictures with a radiologist, a doctor trained to interpret the scan in detail. If you still have questions after your doctor has explained your MRI results to you, be sure to ask.