If you’re experiencing persistent knee pain, stiffness, or mobility issues, your doctor may recommend an MRI of the knee joint to get a clear and detailed image of what’s happening beneath the surface. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury, arthritis, or unexplained discomfort, this diagnostic imaging tool is essential to pinpointing the problem and starting the right treatment.
But for many Ontarians, the biggest challenge isn’t the scan itself, it’s the wait time.
What Is an MRI of the Knee Joint?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) of the knee joint uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the knee’s bones, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles. Unlike an X-ray or CT scan, an MRI is especially useful for detecting soft tissue injuries and conditions that aren’t visible with other imaging tools.
Common reasons for a knee MRI include:
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ACL or meniscus tears
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Ligament sprains or strains
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Cartilage damage
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Bone bruises or fractures
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Arthritis or degenerative joint disease
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Unexplained knee pain or swelling
The scan typically takes about 10 minutes and is completely non-invasive. You’ll lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine, and you’ll be asked to stay still during the imaging process. The results are then interpreted by a radiologist and sent to your doctor.
Wait Times for MRI of the Knee Joint in Ontario
Here’s where many patients hit a roadblock.
According to Ontario Health, non-urgent MRI scans, including many knee MRIs, can have wait times of 100 days or more, depending on the region. For patients dealing with pain, mobility issues, or delayed treatment plans, that’s a long time to wait.
These delays can have real consequences, from prolonged discomfort to missed opportunities for early intervention or surgery.
How to Get an MRI of the Knee Joint in 48 Hours at Canmax
Canmax Medical Imaging offers a faster solution.
We provide MRI appointments within 48 hours, including MRI of the knee joint, for Canadian patients at our diagnostic imaging centres located just across the border in Buffalo, NY.
Our clinics are equipped with state-of-the-art imaging technology, and we specialize in helping Canadians get the answers they need, without the long wait.
Benefits of booking your MRI with Canmax:
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Fast scheduling (appointments within 48 hours)
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Interpreted by board-certified radiologists
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Reports sent directly to your physician in Canada
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Canadian-owned and operated
Crossing the Border: What You Need to Know
Traveling from Ontario to Buffalo for an MRI is safe, easy, and legal.
Tens of thousands of Canadians cross the border each year for healthcare services, including diagnostic imaging. As long as you have valid ID (passport, Nexus, or enhanced driver’s license) and your purpose of travel is medical, you won’t encounter any issues at the border.
If you’re unsure about the process, our team can help guide you through what to expect and what to bring.
Don’t Wait Months for Answers
If you’re searching for an MRI of the knee joint in Ontario, know that you have another option.
Canmax was created to help Canadians get the care they need — faster. With convenient locations near the Niagara border and appointments available within 48 hours, there’s no need to wait over 100 days for answers.
📞 Ready to book?
Visit www.cmimri.ca/contact or call us at 365-675-1720 to schedule your MRI today.