A simple, reassuring guide to help you feel prepared and confident before your scan.
If your consultant has recommended an MRI, X-ray, CT scan or ultrasound, it’s completely normal to have questions about what will happen. Many patients wonder about:
- What the scan involves
- Whether it will be uncomfortable
- How long it takes
- Whether they need to prepare
- What the environment will be like
Modern imaging is safe, quick and highly effective. And, at Orthopaedic Innovation (OI), our Patient Support Team is available throughout your journey to answer questions, offer reassurance and organise every part of your imaging pathway.
This guide explains, step-by-step, what typically happens during each type of scan.
Before Your Appointment
For most scans, preparation is simple:
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Remove all jewellery and metal items
- Bring details of any implants or medical devices
- Arrive a few minutes early for routine safety checks
At OI, imaging is performed or overseen by specialist radiographers experienced in musculoskeletal conditions.
What Happens During an MRI Scan
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of joints, muscles and soft tissues.
Step-by-step: What to Expect
- Safety screening
You’ll be asked about implants, pacemakers or metal in your body. - Comfortable positioning
You lie on a padded table with cushions or supports. - Entering the scanner
The table moves into a wide, open-ended tube.
For limb scans, only the area being scanned enters the machine. - The noise
MRI machines make tapping or thumping sounds. Ear protection is always provided. - Staying still
Most scans last 15–30 minutes. - Communication
You can speak to the radiographer at any time.
Does MRI hurt?
No: it is completely painless.
What Happens During an MRI Scan
X-rays use a small amount of radiation to produce images of bones and joints.
What to Expect
- Quick preparation
Jewellery or clothing may need to be removed from the area being scanned. - Positioning
The radiographer positions you appropriately. - Stillness
You remain still for a few seconds while the image is taken. - Multiple angles
Often two or three images are taken from different positions.
How long does it take?
Usually 5–10 minutes.
Does an X-ray hurt?
No: it is painless and very quick.
What Happens During an Ultrasound Scan
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time images of soft tissues, tendons, ligaments and nerves.
What to Expect
- Gel applied
A cool gel is placed on your skin. - Scanning
The clinician moves a small handheld probe over the area.
You may be asked to move the joint or describe symptoms to improve diagnostic accuracy. - Dynamic imaging
Useful for tendon injuries, swelling, nerve issues and guided injections.
How long does it take?
Around 10–20 minutes.
Does ultrasound hurt?
No: you may feel gentle pressure, but no pain.
What Happens During a CT Scan
CT (Computed Tomography) uses rotating X-rays to create detailed cross-sectional images.
What to Expect
- Lying on the CT table
You lie on a padded table that moves through a ring-shaped scanner. - The scan
The scanner rotates, but you will not feel anything. - Quick imaging
CT scans are very fast; often 5–15 minutes.
Does CT hurt?
No: it is completely painless.
After Your Scan
Once your imaging is complete:
- You can leave immediately
- There is no recovery time
- Your images are reviewed by a specialist radiologist
- Your Orthopaedic Innovation consultant will go through the results with you at your next appointment
If you need help scheduling follow-up appointments or coordinating your care, our Patient Support Team will organise everything for you.
Understand more about how we assist in our blog: Beyond the Clinic: What Makes Our Concierge Team Unique
When to Ask Questions
You can always ask your radiographer or our team about:
- What the scan involves
- Any concerns about the scanner environment
- Claustrophobia or anxiety
- How long the scan will take
- Safety with implants or devices
- Follow-up appointments
We encourage all patients to ask anything they need; reassurance is part of our care.
Moving Forward with Confidence
MRI, X-ray, CT and ultrasound are safe, painless and essential tools in diagnosing joint, muscle and nerve conditions. Knowing what to expect can make your appointment calmer and more comfortable.
If your treatment process requires imaging, we’ll organise and assist you the whole way.
Speak to our team and kickstart your journey to a healthier you.
