73221 · MRI upper extremity joint without contrastLeft or Right

Shoulder MRI in St. Louis — $399 Flat Rate

Shoulder MRI is the primary study for rotator cuff and labral injury. It can show tendon tears, muscle atrophy, and joint surface damage that neither X-ray nor a physical exam can fully characterize.

Not sure which side? Just pick one — we'll confirm by phone. Or call us.

A doctor's order is required — your provider can fax it to (314) 804-7226.

Patient on the MRI table before a scan
Getting positioned on the MRI table

A Doctor's Order Is Required

We require a doctor's order before we can perform an MRI, and so do Medicare and most insurance plans. No order yet? We can help you get one — most patients arrange it in a day or two.

Scan time25 min
Price$399
PositionLying on your back with the arm at your side in a dedicated shoulder coil. Head enters the scanner.
Report24–48 hours

What the Radiologist Looks For

  • Rotator cuff tears — partial thickness, full thickness, and tear size
  • Supraspinatus and infraspinatus tendinopathy
  • Labral tears, including SLAP lesions
  • Subacromial impingement and bursitis
  • AC joint arthropathy
  • Biceps tendon pathology and subluxation
  • Adhesive capsulitis findings
  • Muscle atrophy indicating chronic tear

Who Orders This

Ordered for shoulder pain with overhead reaching, night pain, weakness lifting the arm, or after a fall or dislocation.

Hospital MRIs typically cost $1,500+ — ours is a flat $399.

One flat price that covers everything, including the scan, the radiologist's read, and your images. No facility fee, no separate bill.

See the Full Price Comparison

How to Prepare

  • No fasting or special preparation.
  • Wear a shirt that opens in front or plan to change into a gown.
  • Remove necklaces and any adhesive pain patches.
  • Tell us which shoulder — we image one per study.

Common Questions

MR arthrogram involves injecting contrast directly into the joint and is sometimes preferred for subtle labral tears. We perform non-contrast studies only. For most rotator cuff questions a standard MRI is diagnostic; if your surgeon specifically requires an arthrogram, we will tell you honestly rather than scan you unnecessarily.

Arm resting at your side, palm up or neutral. You will be padded and supported so you can hold the position comfortably.

Yes, as two separate studies. Each shoulder requires its own coil setup.

New to MRIs? Read our complete guide to what to expect · More questions? See all FAQs · Read patient reviews

Request Your Shoulder MRI

Flat rate $399. No insurance required. Same-day appointments by phone.