If your physician has referred you for an MRI, you may be feeling unsure about what the experience will be like. That’s completely normal. Even though millions of MRI exams are performed each year, the process can feel mysterious if you’ve never had one—or if it’s been a long time since your last visit.
At InView Imaging, our goal is to make your experience as smooth, comfortable, and stress-free as possible. As a community-based, physician-owned diagnostic imaging group serving the Bay Area since 2004, we’ve designed our MRI services around what patients value most: compassion, clarity, convenience, and high-quality imaging.
This guide will walk you step-by-step through what to expect before, during, and after your MRI exam at InView Imaging.
What Is an MRI, and Why Did My Doctor Order One?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a safe, noninvasive exam that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of your internal organs, joints, soft tissues, and more. Unlike CT scans or X-rays, MRI does not use radiation, which makes it especially helpful for repeated follow-up imaging or evaluating soft tissues that cannot be seen well on other tests.
Your doctor may order an MRI at InView Imaging to evaluate:
- Back or neck pain
- Disc herniations
- Joint injuries (knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, etc.)
- Sports-related injuries
- Headaches or neurological symptoms
- Soft-tissue abnormalities
- Organ changes
- Tumors or masses
- Post-surgical changes
- Chronic pain conditions
Our fellowship-trained radiologists and experienced technologists use advanced MRI technology to ensure the most accurate and clinically meaningful results.
Why Patients Choose InView Imaging for MRI
InView Imaging is known for offering:
- Flexible appointment scheduling, often same-week
- Open MRI (Concord) and wide-bore MRI (San Ramon)for patients who are claustrophobic
- Fast report turnaroundto your referring physician
- Personalized, compassionate careat every step
- Experienced technologistsskilled in patient comfort
- Convenient, community-based locations
- Affordable, transparent pricing
We pride ourselves on delivering the type of care we would want for our own families.
How to Prepare for Your MRI at InView Imaging
Most MRI exams at InView Imaging require little to no special preparation, but here are a few helpful guidelines for the day of your appointment.
- Clothing
We ask that you avoid wearing anything with metal, such as:
- Zippers or snaps
- Underwire bras
- Belts
- Metal hairpins
- Watches and jewelry
You’re welcome to wear comfortable athletic-style clothing if it is free of metal. If not, we will provide a gown or shorts for your exam.
- Personal Items
Before entering the MRI room, you’ll be asked to remove:
- Phones
- Wallets and credit cards
- Keys
- Hearing aids
- Glasses
- Jewelry
The magnetic field can damage these items or interfere with image quality.
- Eating and Drinking
Most MRIs require no dietary restrictions. If your exam requires contrast or special preparation, our scheduling team will review this with you before your appointment.
- Medications
You may take your usual medications unless your physician advises otherwise.
If you are claustrophobic or anxious about the MRI, please let us know ahead of time. In some cases, your physician may prescribe a mild medication to help you relax during the exam.
- Safety Screening
Before your exam, our technologist will review your MRI safety questionnaire. This helps us confirm that it is safe for you to enter the MRI environment. Please tell us if you have:
- A pacemaker or implanted device
- Aneurysm clips
- Metal fragments in your eye or body
- Cochlear implants
- Neurostimulators
- Surgical hardware
- Tattoos with metallic ink
Not all metal is unsafe, but our team needs to understand what you have so we can plan the safest, most effective exam.
What to Expect When You Arrive at InView Imaging
Our front desk team will greet you, assist with check-in, and answer any questions you may have. We know that medical imaging can be stressful, and our staff is trained to help patients feel welcomed and supported from the moment they walk in.
You’ll then be guided to a private changing area if needed and introduced to your MRI technologist—the person who will perform your scan.
Your MRI Technologist: Your Partner Throughout the Exam
Our technologists at InView Imaging are not only experts in MRI physics and anatomy—they are compassionate professionals who understand that comfort matters.
Before your exam begins, your technologist will:
- Explain the entire process step-by-step
- Review safety measures
- Answer your questions
- Position you comfortably on the MRI table
- Provide ear protection or headphones
- Stay in constant communication throughout the scan
At InView, you are never alone during your exam. Your technologist can see, hear, and speak with you the entire time.
What the MRI Machine Is Like at InView Imaging
We offer different MRI scanner options at our locations to meet a variety of patient needs:
- Concord:High-field Open MRI—ideal for patients who are claustrophobic
- San Ramon:Wide-bore MRI with a larger opening for improved comfort
- Other locations:Traditional high-field MRI units with excellent imaging quality
If you have concerns about the type of scanner, notify our scheduling team—they’ll help place you at the most appropriate InView location.
The Sounds of the MRI
All MRI machines make distinctive tapping or knocking sounds as the magnetic field changes during imaging sequences. These sounds are normal, and most patients get used to them quickly. We provide:
- Earplugs
- Headphones with music (where available)
Many patients find the sounds rhythmic or even relaxing once the exam gets underway.
What Happens During the MRI Itself
- Positioning
Your technologist will help you lie comfortably on the padded MRI table. Cushions and pads are used to provide support and help you remain still.
Depending on the exam type, a lightweight imaging coil may be placed around or near the area being scanned. This device helps capture detailed images.
- Going Into the Scanner
The table will move slowly into the MRI machine. If you are having a knee, foot, or lower-extremity MRI, much of your body may remain outside the scanner. For spine and brain MRIs, your head will go inside.
Your technologist will begin the first imaging sequence and remind you of the importance of staying as still as possible during each scan.
- Breathing and Staying Still
Most MRI exams do not require breath-holding. If breath-holding is needed—usually for abdominal MRIs—your technologist will guide you.
Remaining still is the key to clear images. Between sequences, if you need to adjust your position, just let the technologist know.
- Use of Contrast
Some MRI exams require contrast to better visualize blood vessels or soft tissues. If needed, a small IV will be placed before the scan. MRI contrast is extremely safe, and our staff monitors you throughout your exam.
- Exam Duration
Most MRI exams at InView Imaging take 20 to 45 minutes. More complex exams may take a bit longer. Your technologist will keep you informed throughout the exam—how long each sequence will take and how much time remains.
After Your MRI: What Happens Next?
- Finishing Up
Once your exam is complete, the technologist will help you off the table and remove any coils or padding. If you received contrast, we may recommend drinking plenty of fluids afterward.
You will then change back into your clothes and be free to go—there is no downtime and no side effects. You can drive, return to work, or resume normal activities right away.
- Radiologist Interpretation
Your MRI images are then reviewed by a board-certified, fellowship-trained radiologist at InView Imaging. These physicians specialize in interpreting complex imaging exams and providing clear, detailed reports.
Your radiologist will evaluate:
- Anatomy and structures
- Any abnormalities or areas of concern
- Comparisons to any previous imaging
- Recommendations for follow-up
- Sending Results to Your Physician
InView Imaging delivers MRI results quickly—often within 24–48 hours. Your referring physician receives:
- A written radiologist report
- Access to your images
- The ability to speak directly with our radiologists for clarification
This ensures your care team can make timely, informed decisions about your treatment.
Common Questions From Patients
“Will the MRI hurt?”
No. MRI is completely painless. You may feel the table vibrate slightly or hear loud tapping sounds, but there is no discomfort.
“Can I get an MRI at InView if I’m claustrophobic?”
Yes. Many patients with claustrophobia successfully complete their exams at InView Imaging. We offer Open MRI in Concord and wide-bore MRI in San Ramon, along with supportive technologists and a calm environment.
“How soon will my doctor get the results?”
Typically within 24–48 hours. Urgent cases can be read immediately.
“Is MRI safe if I have metal in my body?”
Our team will review your safety questionnaire and determine the best approach. Many implants are MRI-compatible, but it’s important to tell us exactly what you have.
“Can I bring someone with me?”
You’re welcome to bring a companion to the center. While they may not be able to enter the MRI suite, they can remain in the waiting area for support.
Why the MRI Experience Feels Different at InView Imaging
As a community radiology practice, InView Imaging focuses on delivering care that feels personal, local, and truly patient-centered. Patients often tell us that they choose InView because:
- They feel heard and supported, not rushed
- Our staff takes time to explain each step
- Appointments are predictable and accessible
- We offer scanner options that reduce anxiety
- Our radiologists are local experts who collaborate closely with referring physicians
- Our centers are clean, modern, and community-based
Our mission is simple: to provide the highest-quality imaging with the warmth and attention of a neighborhood medical team.
Final Thoughts: You’re in Good Hands at InView Imaging
Having an MRI doesn’t need to be stressful. When you know what to expect—and when you’re supported by a compassionate, knowledgeable team—the experience becomes much easier.
At InView Imaging, we’re here to guide you through every step. From preparation to imaging to results, our focus is on your comfort, safety, and peace of mind.
If you have questions before your appointment or need help deciding which InView location is best for your MRI, our team is always here to help.
