Getting injured is no fun at all... and when the doctor tells you that you need an MRI it's even worse. Here's how to prepare yourself so it's not so bad.
First, when you get to the doctor's office take a few deep breaths and try to relax. The more worked up you are, the more difficult it will be.
Step2
If you are getting an arthrogram (a contrast MRI) they will take you to a room and inject whatever part of your body they are screening. You'll then have to sit for about a half an hour. Again, just relax... you're halfway there!
Step3
Next, you will go to the MRI machine. This is the fairly intimidating part, even if you're not clastrophobic. You will want to put your earplugs in because the machine is extremely loud. I recommend closing your eyes and taking a snooze. If you get scared, there is a technician always nearby so you can scream for help if you need to.
Step4
Next thing you know, you're all done and you're out of there. That wasn't so bad now was it?
Tips & Warnings
Bring someone with you, after the MRI you may feel a bit groggy and out of it (especially if they gave you drugs to calm you down). You may want someone to drive you home
Try not to drink a lot before an MRI. You're stuck in the machine for at least 45 minutes and you aren't allowed any bathroom breaks
If you feel uncomfortable or are nervous, don't be afraid to tell your doctor. They are good at helping you feel at ease.
on 11/10/2006
I've had two MRIs in the past few months (knee injuries). I
definitely recommend going to the bathroom beforehand, as you
won't be able to for the 30-45 minutes you're in the MRI. Also,
I've brought books with me, but it's hard to read lying down (at
least for me), and you can't have any metal, like an ipod or
whatever, so I think the best thing is to have someone there with
you, someone to talk to so you're not bored out of your mind.
Stay still- it's tempting to move, but you'll get out of there
quicker if you don't.
Oh yeah, and don't forget... don't wear ANY metal when you get it
done- take off your belt and all jewelry and take your cellphone
out of your pocket. The first time I had an MRI, I left my belt
on and the magnet started pulling it up (which was scary)!
Enthusiast 
Comments
kylemc38 said
on 12/29/2007 Good article! I just had an MRI yesterday and I wish I could have read a book!
molliegym said
on 11/10/2006 I've had two MRIs in the past few months (knee injuries). I
definitely recommend going to the bathroom beforehand, as you
won't be able to for the 30-45 minutes you're in the MRI. Also,
I've brought books with me, but it's hard to read lying down (at
least for me), and you can't have any metal, like an ipod or
whatever, so I think the best thing is to have someone there with
you, someone to talk to so you're not bored out of your mind.
Stay still- it's tempting to move, but you'll get out of there
quicker if you don't.
Oh yeah, and don't forget... don't wear ANY metal when you get it
done- take off your belt and all jewelry and take your cellphone
out of your pocket. The first time I had an MRI, I left my belt
on and the magnet started pulling it up (which was scary)!