Imaging
MRI IN CHARLESTON, SC
The first step to becoming pain free is discovering the source of your pain. Imaging techniques like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allow our pain management physicians to get a clearer picture of what may be causing your pain.
With this information, we can form the best, most effective treatment plan to help you reclaim your quality of life.
Pain Specialists of Charleston is open 5 days a week, so schedule your appointment today! No is referral necessary!
VISIT CHARLESTON MRI NEAR ME
Our NEW onsite MRI offers patients the convenience of on-site imaging at a cost-effective price. Our MRI scanner is a GE Excite HDi 1.5T with a short bore, which can accommodate patients up to 300 pounds.
Our MRI is open Monday – Thursday from 8:00 AM -3:00 PM and Fridays from 8:00 AM -12:00 PM.
To schedule your MRI, call 843-818-1181, extension 424.
Helpful Resources:
MRI Information and Instructions
CONDITIONS WE MANAGE
At Pain Specialists of Charleston, our board-certified pain management physicians support common pain conditions including:
- Knee Pain
- Chest Pain
- Shoulder Pain
- Back Pain
- Hip Pain
- Neck Pain
- & More
TREATMENTS WE OFFER
At Pain Specialists of Charleston, our board-certified pain management physicians are equipped with advanced technology and techniques for quality pain treatment including:
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Massage
- Meditation
- & More
Request Appointment | Contact Us | Meet Pain Doctors
WHAT IS AN MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a type of medical scan.
An MRI scan uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to create a detailed, cross-sectional image of internal organs and structures.
The scanner itself typically resembles a large tube with a table in the middle, allowing the patient to slide in. An MRI scan differs from CT scans and X-rays, as it does not use potentially harmful ionizing radiation.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING MRI SCAN
Before the MRI Scan:
- Little to no preparation is required beforehand.
- Patients may be asked to change into a gown.
- Remove any metal objects or accessories that could interfere with the scanner.
- MRI may not be possible if there’s metal inside the body, like bullets or medical devices.
- If you are anxious about being in an enclosed space, notify your physician and radiologist. They will be able to provide guidance to ease your anxiety.
During the MRI Scan:
- Injection of contrast liquid may be given to enhance the visibility of certain tissues.
- Your radiologist will explain the scanning process and address any concerns.
- You will lie down on the scanner table, made comfortable with blankets or cushions.
- Earplugs or headphones are provided to block loud scanner noises, especially for children.
- The MRI technician communicates with the patient through an intercom to ensure comfort and readiness.
- Patients must remain still during the scan to avoid disrupting images.
- Loud clanging noises are normal during the scan.
- Patients may need to hold their breath briefly for certain images.
- If uncomfortable, the patient can request to stop the scan via intercom.
After the MRI Scan:
- Once the scan is complete, the patient can leave the scanning room.
- After the scan, the radiologist will examine the images to check whether any more are required. If the radiologist is satisfied, the patient can go home.
- The radiologist will prepare a report for the requesting doctor. Patients are usually asked to make an appointment with their doctor to discuss the results.
MEET DOCTOR EDWARD M. TAVEL, JR., MD
- Over 20+ Years of Specialty Training
- Double Board-Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Management
- Completed Training at One of the Top Hospitals in the Southeast, University of North Carolina Hospitals
AWARDS & ASSOCIATIONS
AS SEEN ON
NEED MORE TRICARE HELP?
For questions related directly to your TRICARE Health Insurance, we’ve provided helpful resources below:
MHS Nurse Advice Line: The MHS Nurse Advice Line is available 24/7 by phone, web chat, and video chat.
If you need assistance on conditions and treatments offered with your TRICARE Insurance at Pain Specialist of CHarleston, reach us directly.
FAQs
WILL I GET MY MRI RESULTS IMMEDIATELY?
No, you will not receive your MRI results immediately. They are typically available a few days to a few weeks after the scan. Before discussing them with you, your pain management physician and radiologist will discuss the results together.
WHY DOES IT SEEM SO DIFFICULT TO GET AN MRI?
MRIs can only be performed with a medical order, and they are expensive. Getting an insurance company to approve an MRI requires the physician to prove that it is necessary for their patient’s care.
At Pain Specialist of Charleston, getting you the care you need is our top priority and we’re prepared to work with insurance companies to get an MRI if we believe it would be beneficial to diagnosing and treating your pain.
WILL MUSCLE DAMAGE SHOW DURING AN MRI?
Yes,muscle damage is visible on an MRI. It is the best type of imaging for examining tissues. It can even show the smallest muscle strains, allowing us to treat injuries we otherwise wouldn’t be able to see.
ARE MRIs SAFE?
Yes, MRIs are safe. They use a large magnet–not radiation–to produce images, so there is no risk of radiation exposure.
With that in mind, the magnet used in MRIs can cause issues in those with certain medical devices or conditions. Patients with implanted pacemakers, cochlear implants, certain prosthetic devices, implanted infusion pumps, certain IUDs, iron-based metal implants, and other medical devices should not undergo MRIs. If you have any implanted device or metal in your body, please notify your physician during your initial visit.
WHAT DOES AN MRI SHOW?
MRIs show detailed views of nearly every part of your body, including organs, bones, muscles, and blood vessels.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN MRI SCAN AND A CAT SCAN?
CT scans and MRIs are two useful imaging methods, but they utilize different technologies and are used to identify and diagnose different concerns.
MRIs use a magnet with no radiation, while CT scans take a series of X-ray images, which use radiation.
CT scans are commonly used to examine or identify the following concerns:
- Tumors
- Bone fractures
- Internal bleeding
- Cancer development and response to treatment
If there is an issue that cannot be seen with a CT scan, your physician will likely order an MRI. This type of imaging allows us to get a better look at parts of the body that a CT scan may not be able to show us. This includes issues with your:
- Breasts
- Brain
- Heart
- Joints
- Ankles & wrists
- Blood vessels
WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF MRI SCANS?
MRIs are largely safe, and it’s rare for patients to experience side effects. However, some patients experience the following:
- Nausea, headaches, or pain caused by the contrast dye
- Allergic reaction to the dye, which may cause itchy eyes or hives
- Claustrophobia due to the enclosed nature of the scan
If you have any allergies or concerns about the dye, please notify your physician and radiologist before your scan.
HOW LONG DOES AN MRI SCAN TAKE?
MRI scans can take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes depending on which part(s) of your body are being scanned and how many images were ordered. If the initial images are not clear, your radiologist may order a second scan immediately.
IF I HAVE BRACES OR FILLINGS, CAN I STILL GET AN MRI?
Yes, braces and fillings will not be impacted by the scan, but they may distort certain images. If your pain management physician and/or radiologist think there may be an issue, they will discuss this with you before your scan. They may need to take additional images, which will prolong the scan time.
AM I ALLOWED TO MOVE WHILE I AM IN THE MRI TUNNEL?
No, you must stay completely still in the scanner. Movement will distort or blur the images, which will make another scan necessary.
CAN PREGNANT WOMEN GET AN MRI SCAN?
The effects of MRIs on pregnancy are largely unknown. But overall, doctors recommend against contrast dye for pregnant women. Most doctors will not perform an MRI during the first trimester unless it is necessary. In the second or third trimesters, MRIs can be performed at 3.0 tesla (T) or less.
If you are pregnant and seeking an MRI, your pain management specialist can determine whether it is safe for you and find alternatives, if necessary.
WHO SHOULD NOT GET AN MRI?
While MRIs are safe for most patients, they are dangerous for patients with specific conditions and medical devices. The following devices are not always safe for MRIs:
- Implanted pacemakers
- Metal joint prosthetics
- Implantable defibrillators
- Artificial heart valves
- Cochlear implants
- Metal clips
- Implanted nerve stimulators
- Implanted drug infusion pumps
- Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Surgical staples or stents
Patients with metal plates, screws, or pins can typically get an MRI with no issues, but you should always tell your physician if you have any implanted devices or metal in your body. They will be able to determine safer alternatives for your treatment.
IS FEELING TIRED AFTER AN MRI NORMAL?
While there are no side effects of an MRI, they are stressful, which is why many patients report feeling tired afterward. Preparing for your scan, going to your appointment, and waiting for results can all cause tiredness, so don’t be afraid to take it easy after your MRI.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT?
At your first appointment, your pain management specialist will look over and discuss your medical history, in addition to performing a physical exam. This will allow them to form the best, most effective treatment plan to help you get back to the activities you love most. What Should I Bring?
DOES PAIN SPECIALISTS OF CHARLESTON REQUIRE A REFERRAL?
No, we do not require a referral! We accept both self-made appointments and referrals from your primary care physician. Schedule your first appointment today! BOOK NOW
HOW LONG IS A PAIN MANAGEMENT APPOINTMENT?
Your first appointment will last approximately 30 minutes. Each subsequent appointment will vary in length based on the treatment(s) your physician recommends. What else should new patients expect?
HOURS
Open 5 Days a Week!
Monday 8 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Wednesday 8 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 8 am-4:30 pm
Friday 8 am-1:00 pm
Saturday CLOSED
Sunday CLOSED
