Common symptoms
- Comprehensive orthopedic evaluation
- Same-day imaging at most offices
- Conservative-first care plan tailored to your goals
- Coordinated specialty referrals when needed
- In-network insurance for most major carriers
Musculoskeletal MRI
Detailed imaging of joints and soft tissue
MRI gives us a detailed look at soft tissues (ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and spinal discs) and is the imaging test of choice for most orthopedic injuries that do not show up on X-ray. Same-day or next-week evaluations across eight LA-area offices.
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Board-certified surgeons and podiatrists across eight Los Angeles area neighborhoods.
Book a visitOr call (323) 264-7600
Key takeaways
- Musculoskeletal MRI is part of the full diagnostic and treatment toolkit our LAOSS specialists use every day.
- MRI gives us a detailed look at soft tissues (ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and spinal discs) and is the imaging test of choice for most orthopedic injuries that do not show up on X-ray.
- Most patients improve when treatment starts early and is matched to the actual diagnosis.
- Same-day appointments available across eight Los Angeles-area offices.
About musculoskeletal MRI
Musculoskeletal MRI is part of the orthopedic care we offer at LAOSS. Below, we walk through the anatomy involved, who benefits from this service, what it looks like at our clinics, and the preparation and safety considerations to weigh.
Our specialists move stepwise: start with the least-invasive option that fits, escalate only when it doesn't.
Watch: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
This scan lets doctors see inside your body without using radiation. Instead, MRIs use magnets and radio waves. An MRI shows clear views of your soft tissues. It can show cancer and other problems.
Inside the musculoskeletal system.
Most musculoskeletal pain comes down to one of four tissues: bone, cartilage, ligament/tendon, or muscle. The right care starts with the right diagnosis.
What we offer with musculoskeletal MRI.
Common causes
- New patients exploring an orthopedic complaint
- Existing LAOSS patients continuing care
- Patients seeking a second opinion
- Athletes and active adults of every age
How we start treatment
When you book with LAOSS for a musculoskeletal MRI, here's the flow:
- Initial visit: detailed history, focused exam, on-site X-ray when needed
- Diagnosis & plan: most patients leave with imaging-confirmed answers and a written treatment plan
- Treatment: whether that's PT, an injection, or surgery, your specialist stays involved at every step
- Follow-up: measured benchmarks, direct line to your care team, plan adjustments as recovery progresses
Orthopedic care, conservative-first.
We start with the least-invasive option that fits, and escalate only when it doesn't.
Conservative care
Step 1Conservative care first
Non-surgical options designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and avoid the OR when possible.
- Physical therapy & focused strengthening
- Image-guided steroid injections
- Activity & ergonomic modification
- NSAIDs & topical anti-inflammatories
- PRP & regenerative therapies
Surgical care
When neededSurgical options when needed
Minimally invasive and reconstructive procedures performed by board-certified orthopedic surgeons.
- Arthroscopy when minimally invasive surgery fits
- Tendon / ligament reconstruction or repair
- Fracture fixation
- Joint replacement when arthritis is advanced
- Pain procedures for chronic conditions
Why experience matters.
Why experience matters
Orthopedic care is highly technique-dependent. Volume, training, and judgment together determine the outcome you feel six months later.
- Precise diagnosis from imaging and exam
- Conservative-first care that avoids unnecessary surgery
- Technique refined over thousands of cases
- On-site imaging + coordinated PT through your in-network provider
The LAOSS approach
Our orthopedic specialists move stepwise: start with the least-invasive option that fits, escalate only when it doesn't.
- Same-day imaging at most offices
- PT coordinated in your insurance network
- Board-certified specialists performing the procedures themselves
- Direct access to your specialist between visits
Am I a candidate?
If most of these match your situation, an evaluation with a orthopedic specialist is the next step.
You may be a candidate if
These signs typically point toward this service being a good fit.
- A suspected ligament, tendon, cartilage, or disc injury that an X-ray cannot show
- Swelling, instability, or noticeable change in function
- Symptoms that limit walking, lifting, sleep, or work
- Previous treatment that didn't fully resolve the problem
- Imaging or exam findings that suggest an underlying issue
What evaluation includes
Your first visit is built to give you an answer the same day, not just another referral.
- Detailed history: onset, mechanism, what makes it better or worse
- Hands-on exam focused on the affected joint or region
- On-site imaging at most offices (X-ray, ultrasound)
- Clear plan with options ranging from conservative to surgical
- Same-day or next-day scheduling for any follow-up tests
ImportantSeek urgent evaluation for sudden severe pain, numbness, progressive weakness, or any sign of infection (fever, increasing redness or swelling).
What to expect with an MRI.
An MRI is a painless scan with no recovery time. Here is how it usually goes.
- Before
Before your scan
You are screened for metal and implanted devices and told how to prepare.
- Tell us about any pacemaker, implant, or metal in your body
- Leave jewelry, watches, and other metal items at home
- Ask about options if you are uncomfortable in small spaces
- Take your usual medications unless you are told otherwise
- During
During your scan
You lie still on a padded table while the scanner takes detailed pictures.
- No radiation is used
- The scanner is loud, so you are given ear protection
- Holding still keeps the images sharp
- Contrast dye is used only for certain studies
- After
After your scan
You can return to normal activity right away unless you were given a sedative.
- A radiologist reads the images and writes a report
- Your specialist reviews the results with you
- The findings are matched to your exam and symptoms
- Direct line back to your specialist if needed
Risks & considerations
What to weigh before you decide.
We talk through the risks and benefits with every patient. Informed consent is a conversation, not a form.
General considerations
MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves, not radiation. It is very safe, but the magnet means a few things must be checked first.
- Pacemakers, defibrillators, and some implants or metal fragments may not be MRI-safe
- Tell the staff if you are or may be pregnant
- Contrast dye, when used, carries a small risk of allergic reaction and is used with caution in kidney disease
- A repeat or different scan is sometimes needed if the images are unclear
What an MRI can and cannot tell us
An MRI is one piece of the diagnosis. We read it alongside your history and exam.
- Findings such as disc bulges or small tears are common in people with no pain
- Metal implants near the area can blur the images
- Claustrophobia or trouble lying still can limit the study
- Not every problem needs an MRI; an exam and X-ray are often enough
Meet our orthopedic specialists
At LAOSS, our orthopedic specialists are board-certified and treat these problems every day. From minimally invasive techniques to coordinating your rehab, our physicians bring decades of experience to every case. We have cared for Los Angeles patients since 2007, with one goal for each: less pain, better movement, and a return to the activities you love.
Specialists, not generalists.
Compare up to 34 providers
Accepting new patients
David Barba, MD
Hip & Knee Surgeon
Speaks English and Spanish
Habla español
- Wilshire
- East Los Angeles
Reliable musculoskeletal imaging starts here
With same- or next-day appointments at eight Los Angeles-area offices, you'll never wait weeks or months for answers. Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or surgery, we plan it with you and coordinate each step.
Call or schedule online today to see an orthopedic specialist in Los Angeles.
From our Google reviews
Read all 9,626 reviews on GoogleWhat patients say
“Dr. Bastian sat down, reviewed my MRI, took plenty of time to listen first to my concerns then he explained in very plain terms what had happened, verified in images, and then laid out options to recovery. What I loved is that possible outcomes were clearly stated and I had input into my recovery. All doors were opened, and we together decided on a course of action. …”
Jonathan G.Google reviewGlendaleAug 2024
“Dr Yasmeh is one of the brightest doctors I've ever met. He did a great job of treating my herniated disc and going over my lower lumbar MRI results in detail. He's so great to work with and can answer any questions. …”
Tom M.Google reviewEast Los AngelesOct 2025
“Every one is very profesional. Dr. Dworsky took the time to go over the MRI Results and gave me different options to help me with my injury. He explained throughly. I'm pleased with his help.”
Maria M.Google reviewSanta Fe SpringsOct 2024
“Met with Dr Perrone to review my mri and X-rays for my knee. He gave me the complete low down and made sure I knew my options. My spirits are high and will definitely see him again if it gets worst.”
Alan A.Google reviewSanta Fe SpringsJan 2024
Selected 5-star reviews from Google, shown as written. Individual results vary.
FAQ.
- The right candidate depends on your diagnosis, prior treatments, and goals. We start with a focused orthopedic exam and review your imaging, and your specialist explains whether a musculoskeletal MRI is the best next step or whether a different approach makes more sense.
Find out if a musculoskeletal MRI is right for you.
Same-day and next-day appointments at eight Los Angeles-area offices. Book a visit and meet your specialist.
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21 specialists · 8 offices
Greater Los Angeles
On-site X-raySame visit
Most insurers acceptedIn-network