Foot magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, radiation-free imaging exam that allows a detailed assessment of the bony structures, cartilage, ligaments, etc. of the feet. It is particularly useful in the diagnosis of traumatic, inflammatory or degenerative lesions.
What is a Foot MRI?
Foot magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an exam that uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to obtain high-resolution images of the internal structures of the foot, including bones, joints, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues. It is an essential tool for diagnosing conditions that are not visible on X-rays or ultrasound.
What is the price of a Foot MRI?
The price of a foot MRI is 275€, when performed on a private basis. However, it can also be performed through several agreements, including:
- ADSE: If the foot MRI is performed under ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of 30€;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers.
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For a foot MRI, the price through protocol is 220€.
The price varies depending on the healthcare system or insurance you wish to use.
Find out more about the price of MRI exams.
How is it performed?
The patient lies down with the foot positioned inside a specific coil, so that it remains still throughout the exam. Images are obtained in several planes, with thin slices that allow a detailed assessment.
In some clinical situations, intravenous contrast may be administered for better characterisation of inflammation, infection or tumours.
During the exam, it is important not to move. Only the foot will enter the scanner (you will not need to put your whole body inside).
Earplugs are provided to reduce the perception of scanner noise.
The exam usually lasts between 25 and 35 minutes.
What does it detect?
Foot MRI allows the identification, for example, of:
- Occult fractures and bone stress;
- Ligament or tendon injuries (e.g. Achilles tendon, posterior tibial tendon, peroneal tendons);
- Plantar fasciitis and enthesopathies;
- Degenerative or inflammatory arthropathies (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis, gout);
- Bursitis and synovitis;
- Cysts, tumours or bone infections (osteomyelitis);
- Vascular changes or bone marrow oedema;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Foot MRI is indicated in:
- Persistent foot pain without a clear diagnosis after previous exams;
- Trauma with suspected fracture or ligament injury;
- Assessment of plantar fasciitis or tendinopathies resistant to treatment;
- Study of inflammatory arthritis or advanced osteoarthritis;
- Identification of post-surgical lesions or assessment of complications;
- Among others.
Preparation and guidelines for a Foot MRI
Before undergoing an MRI at NRD, please consider the following:
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You must bring the exam prescription in paper form. |
| Fasting | Most MRI exams do not require fasting. In cases with contrast, fasting for 3 hours is usually necessary (confirmed when booking). |
| Early arrival | Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled time. |
| Medication | You may take essential and unavoidable medication with a minimum amount of water. |
| Metal objects | Remove all metal objects (e.g. earrings, bracelets, necklaces, piercings, hairpins, removable prostheses, etc.). |
| Pregnancy | Inform the NRD healthcare professional if you are pregnant. |
| Exams / Tests / Info | Bring previous imaging exams, relevant clinical information and recent laboratory tests. |
| Glucose monitoring implant | Do not place the implant, as it will have to be removed before the exam. |
| Make-up | Do not wear make-up, as some products may affect the exam. |
| Valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses | If you have valve and/or orthopaedic prostheses, bring proof describing and specifying the material composition. |
| Hearing aids | Inform us if you use a hearing aid, as it must be removed before the exam. |
| Dental prostheses | Inform us if you use a dental prosthesis, as it must be removed before the exam. Also inform us if you have dental implants. |
| Orthodontic appliances | Inform us if you wear orthodontic appliances. A test may be necessary to assess compatibility with MRI. |
| Pacemakers and implantable devices | NRD does not perform MRI exams on people with pacemakers or implantable devices (e.g. cochlear implant), and it is recommended that the exam be carried out in a hospital setting. |
Throughout the MRI exam, you will be continuously monitored by the NRD imaging technologist responsible for your exam. An alert system will also be at your disposal, which you can activate if needed.
You should remain still during the exam to ensure high-quality images.
The entire NRD team will be at your disposal to answer any questions that may arise.
After the exam, you can return to your usual daily activities.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the MRI results within 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take a CD with the images with you.
Where can you have a Foot MRI?
A foot MRI can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, r/c, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (near Praça de Espanha)