What is an MRI, and how does it work?
Magnet Resonance Imaging or MRI, is unique from many other imaging techniques, such as X-rays and CT scans, because it does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to measure how much water is in different tissues within the body. First, MRI maps the location of the water and then uses this information to generate a detailed image. The images are clear because our bodies are made up of around 65% water, so we have plenty of signals to measure. The water molecule (H2O) comprises two hydrogens and one oxygen atom. The hydrogen (H) atoms are the part that makes water attractive for MRI and what we use to measure the signal from the body when an MRI scan is performed.
What is a MRI and how does it work?
Magnet Resonance Imaging (MRI) is unique from many other imaging techniques, such as X-rays and CT scans, because it does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to measure how much water is in different tissues within the body. First, MRI maps the location of the water and then uses this information to generate a detailed image. The images are clear because our bodies are made up of around 65% water, so we have plenty of signals to measure. The water molecule (H2O) comprises two hydrogens and one oxygen atom. The hydrogen (H) atoms are the part that makes water attractive for MRI and what we use to measure the signal from the body when an MRI scan is performed.
What our client say about us
The most caring doctor I have ever had the opportunity to visit with. I wish I would’ve found Dr. Sharlin years ago. I was actually listened to for the first time in 14 years. I was given real and logical information that I could understand by Dr. Sharlin and his staff. I finally have hope that we will be able to develop a plan to get my symptoms and health conditions under control and possibly even alleviate them. I’m excited to continue my journey with Sharlin Health and Neurology.
- Jennifer Petty
Thank you for taking such great care of my wife! She always feels better and is better after her appointments. Anytime we meet someone that is searching for a neurologist, we always refer them to the best! We couldn't be more grateful to you Dr. Sharlin!
- Chad Gathercole
I have seen many doctors for my condition on the past 20+ years of my life, and no other doctor has approached my diagnosis or my self with such professionalism, kindness, care, and effort as Doctor Sharlin. My condition has truly been a cross to bare at times. While leaving his office I have had tears of relief in knowing my words have actually been heard and acknowledged, and felt some sort of dignity and confidence that simply put 'Everything was going to be alright' thank Doc!
- Clayton Magary
About Springfield Neurologist Dr. Ken Sharlin
Ken Sharlin, M.D., M.P.H., IFMCP, is a board-certified neurologist, consultant, functional medicine doctor, Assistant Clinical Professor, researcher, author, and speaker in Springfield.
His medical degrees are from Emory University, The University of Virginia, and Vanderbilt University. His functional medicine certification is through The Institute for Functional Medicine.
He is author of the #1 best-seller The Healthy Brain Toolbox: Neurologist-Proven Strategies to Improve Memory Loss and Protect Your Aging Brain. His most recent publication, Reversal of Cognitive Decline: 100 Patients, can be found in the peer-reviewed Journal of Alzheimer’s & Parkinsonism, and he has been the primary investigator in several pharma-sponsored clinical trials that have helped bring new therapeutics to market.
Dr. Sharlin practices general neurology, and directs his functional medicine program, Brain Tune Up!, in Ozark, MO.
How safe are MRIs?
Many studies have concluded that MRI is one of the safest technologies for imaging the body.
The examination causes no pain, and the magnetic field produces no known tissue damage. When proper safety guidelines are followed, people of all ages can undergo an exam. Furthermore, if your physician advises, having multiple scans within a short time is acceptable, as the scan presents no adverse side effects.
How safe are MRIs?
Many studies have concluded that MRI is one of the safest technologies for imaging the body.
The examination causes no pain, and the magnetic field produces no known tissue damage. When proper safety guidelines are followed, people of all ages can undergo an exam. Furthermore, if your physician advises, having multiple scans within a short time is acceptable, as the scan presents no adverse side effects.
How do MRIs work?
MRI can aid in diagnosing common ailments involving the head, neck, back, shoulders, hips, knees, and internal organs. It is the most frequently used imaging test of the brain, spine and spinal cord, heart, abdomen and pelvis, blood vessels, bones, and joints. It's often performed to help diagnose:
If you have an implanted device, unless your device is certified as MRI-safe, you might not be able to have an MRI. Devices include:
Metallic joint prostheses
Artificial heart valves
An implantable heart defibrillator
Implanted drug infusion pumps
Implanted nerve stimulators, i.e., bladder stimulators
A pacemaker
Metal clips
Metal pins, screws, plates, stents, or surgical staples
Cochlear implants
A bullet, shrapnel, or any other type of metal fragment
Intrauterine device
If you have tattoos, permanent makeup, or hair extensions, ask your doctor whether they might affect your MRI.
For example, some of the darker inks contain metal.
Before you schedule an MRI, tell your doctor if you think you're pregnant. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is not associated with risk. Although it is the imaging technique of choice for pregnant patients, it should be used prudently and only when expected to answer a relevant clinical question or provide medical benefit to the patient.
How to Prepare for your exam
Before an MRI exam, eat and continue taking your usual medications unless otherwise instructed. You could be asked to change into a gown and remove things that might affect the magnetic imaging. Some examples of things that might be involved in an MRI are:
Jewelry or piercings
Bobby pins or other hairpins
Eyeglasses
Watches
Wallets
Keys
Change
All credit/debit cards
Wigs
Dentures
Hearing aids
Cosmetics that contain metal particles
Medication patches
Any clothing item with metal, including zippers, steel-toed boots, and underwire bra
How to Prepare for your exam
Before an MRI exam, eat and continue taking your usual medications unless otherwise instructed. You could be asked to change into a gown and remove things that might affect the magnetic imaging. Some examples of things that might be involved in an MRI are:
Jewelry or piercings
Bobby Pins or other hairpins
Eyeglasses
Watches
Wallets
Keys
Change
All credit/debit cards
Wigs
Dentures
Hearing aids
Cosmetics that contain metal particles
Medication patches
Any clothing item with metal, including zippers, steel-toed boots, and underwire bra
Community Partners
We believe providers in our healthcare community seek meaningful partnerships with other community members who best serve their needs and priorities, from straightforward to complex health conditions and situations where quality and rapid turnaround are a priority. Financially, we are the preeminent solution for the uninsured or those who carry health insurance with a high deductible.
At Sharlin Health Advanced Imaging (SHAI), we do not charge a facility fee and have the best direct-pay price point in the region.
SHAI follows The THREE "A" Principles:
Advanced, Affordable, and Accessible for both provider and patient.
Contact us at [email protected] to find out more about our community partner benefits!
Contact Us
417-238-3301
5500 N. Farmer Branch Rd. Ozark, Missouri 65721
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