Need An MRI? Why You Should Elect The Upright Version
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan, better known as an MRI, is an examination tool used by medical professionals to diagnose all kinds of ailments. The MRI makes it much easier for doctors to see the internal organs such as the brain and spinal cord so that tumors and other inner issues can be isolated for treatment. If your doctor has recently informed you that an MRI is necessary it can bring on a sense of panic. Traditional MRI machines are often thought to be confining and if you're not a big fan of closed-in places the very thought of having to undergo the process can elicit fear in even the bravest person. If you're anxious about getting an MRI the upright version might be a better option that helps to take away the stress.
Upright MRI's Have An Open Design
A key benefit that you'll receive when getting an upright MRI is the open format of the machine. Instead of having to lie in a cave-like enclosure and wait anxiously as the scan passes over your body, you can actually stand or sit upright in a machine with an open design. Some are so large that you can actually watch television while the scanning takes place!
People who are claustrophobic have a very hard time with traditional MRI's. Some of these individuals fear closed-in places so much that they have to be sedated prior to having an MRI in order to go through the process. The anesthesia can have different effects, including nausea and vomiting, both of which can be very unpleasant and may last for several hours at a time.
Different Angles Bring Much Better Results
When you have an upright MRI you're able to bend your body into various poses. For example, if you have a spinal injury that your physician wants to capture an image of it's so much easier to do this when you're able to lean over and let the scan pass through your body. Sitting, standing, and even lunging can all be achieved when you have an upright MRI. The result is that the scanner can capture a much more accurate image that can help your doctor find out what the problem is and devise an accurate treatment plan.
Getting an upright MRI can be a very satisfactory experience and might be the first step on your road to recovery. Talk with your doctor and ask them if they can refer you to an upright MRI facility, like Hudson Valley Imaging, so you can get the scan done as soon as possible.