MRI vs. X-Ray: Which Is Better for Diagnosing Joint Problems in 2025?

Image of a hip joint X-ray, with the joint highlighted in red When joint pain slows you down, imaging plays a crucial role in getting the right diagnosis and treatment. At Advanced Orthopaedic Associates, we use two types of state-of-the-art imaging technology, MRI and X-rays, to help pinpoint the cause of joint issues for patients in our Wichita, KS, office. But which one is better for pinpointing joint problems? Read on to find out.

What X-Rays Do Best

X-rays can reveal:

  • Fractures
  • Joint dislocations
  • Bone spurs
  • Bone infections (osteomyelitis)

If you suffer a fall, have a sports injury, have long-term joint stiffness, or experience issues with joint stability, an X-ray is often the first step.

What MRI Does Best

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) utilizes magnets and radio waves to produce highly detailed images from within your body. It’s better suited for evaluating soft tissue, while X-ray excels at imaging hard tissues like bone.

MRIs can identify injuries or issues in and around the joints, such as:

  • Ligament and tendon tears
  • Cartilage damage
  • Bone bruises
  • Subtle stress fractures that may not appear on an X-ray
  • Joint inflammation

If an X-ray doesn’t explain the source of your joint problems, an MRI is often the next step.

The Right Tool for the Right Problem

With both X-ray and MRI available here in our Wichita, KS, facility, our Advanced Orthopaedic Associates doctors can choose the method (or combination) that best suits your needs.

Sometimes that means starting with an X-ray and moving to an MRI for more detailed insight. With a large team of fellowship-trained, board-certified providers across various subspecialties, we can coordinate your diagnosis and treatment promptly, all in one place.

All imaging is administered by our highly trained team, all of whom are members of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists.

We’re also accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC,) a designation earned only through consistently meeting and exceeding the highest standards for imaging procedures.

Immediate Joint Imaging in Wichita, KS

Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury, chronic joint pain, or something more complex, our imaging experts at Advanced Orthopaedic Associates can help. In Wichita, Andover, Derby, Maize, Goddard, and Park City we’ve been known as the area’s most trusted orthopaedic practice since 1993. If you need same-day orthopaedic care, advanced minimally invasive treatments, joint replacement, or any other orthopaedic care, we’re ready to help. Phone our office at 316-631-1600 to schedule your appointment.

Accessibility Toolbar

Hurt? Get Free Injury Advice!

Not sure what to do after an injury? Download the Hurt! app for free, easy-to-use injury advice and guidance on the next steps.

Close the CTA