How Does an MRI Work for Someone with Claustrophobia?

If your medical specialist requested an MRI but understands the challenges you face with claustrophobia, they’ll likely send you to an open MRI facility such as LA MRI Center, conveniently located in Koreatown, Los Angeles, California. 

We’re a leading MRI facility in the area because we offer superior service, fast scheduling, and rapid turnarounds. Beyond that, we’re experts in making imaging comfortable for patients with claustrophobia. Here’s how the process works.

What is claustrophobia?

Claustrophobia is a type of anxiety disorder that affects over 12% of Americans. It occurs when someone feels trapped or confined in a small or enclosed space. 

Symptoms can include extreme nervousness, a racing heart, perspiration, and an overpowering urge to escape the confined space. People with claustrophobia may experience intrusive symptoms in any small space, for example, elevators or crowded rooms. 

Traditional MRIs are imaging tests that enclose the patient in a tube, often triggering intense feelings of claustrophobia, even in those who aren't officially diagnosed with the disorder. 

That's why many people with claustrophobia may feel hesitant to schedule an MRI. Fortunately, with today's advanced technology, there's a way to get necessary imaging while staying comfortable.

When someone with claustrophobia needs an MRI

The reasons medical providers may recommend an MRI can vary widely. The bottom line is that if this type of imaging is necessary to evaluate a medical problem, it's important that claustrophobia not hinder that process.

Your medical provider may order an MRI for reasons such as:

• Neck injuries
• Back pain or injuries
• Spinal injuries such as whiplash
• Joint injuries or arthritis
• Knee pain or injuries

For patients with and without claustrophobia, MRI imaging can be an important diagnostic tool. It often excels at showing soft tissue problems that aren’t clearly visible on other imaging tests.

If symptoms are persistent, worsening, or unexplained, an MRI can help medical care providers gather the detailed information needed to guide treatment decisions and next steps.

The MRI process for those with claustrophobia

When you arrive for your appointment at LA MRI Center, our caring team reviews your medical history, explains the exam, and answers questions so you know what to expect. We always ensure our patients with claustrophobia feel as comfortable and confident as possible for their imaging.

We use the highly advanced Hitachi Airis II™ Open MRI system. Its open design allows for more visual space around you during the exam. You'll lie on a padded table that moves into position over your body without enclosing you in a tube like a traditional MRI. 

During the scan, the MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed internal images while you remain still. You'll be able to communicate with your technologist while your scan is taking place. 

We monitor your comfort level closely throughout. This constant ability to connect to your technologist, combined with the increased comfort of an open MRI machine, is one of the leading reasons patients in and around Los Angeles see us as the best spot for MRIs in the city.

Claustrophobia worries? We can help

If you struggle with claustrophobia and your doctor has requested an MRI, you don't have to delay or avoid the imaging because of anxiety or fear. We're here to support you, and it’s much smoother than many patients expect, thanks to the open MRI process.