Understanding MRI and X-ray Reports
Radiology reports are written for clinicians. Words such as “tear”, “degeneration” and “impingement” are common even in people who are coping well. The report is a clue, not a verdict.
How reports are used in clinic
Dr. Rahul Kumar will correlate the images with how your joint moves and what you cannot do. A small degenerative meniscus signal in an arthritic knee may not be the pain generator. A complete ACL gap with a pivot-shift on examination is a different matter.
Please bring the images
A second look at the actual MRI slices can change the plan. If the CD will not open, say so early so a repeat or a viewer can be arranged.
E-E-A-T
Written for patients, reviewed as medical education
This page is educational. It is not personal medical advice and is not a substitute for examination, imaging review or treatment planned in clinic.
- Author / reviewer
- Dr. Rahul Kumar
- Qualifications
- MBBS, M.S. Orthopedics, MRCS (Edinburgh), FIFA Diploma in Football Medicine
- Last reviewed
- 2026-10-29
- Last updated
- 2026-10-29
Awaiting medical review by Dr. Rahul Kumar