Knee pain is remarkably common, but remarkably varied. A twisted ligament, a worn meniscus, early arthritis, a cartilage lesion — they can all produce similar symptoms but need quite different approaches. If you've been managing pain for weeks without improvement, an MRI scan is often the clearest way to move forward.
What an MRI shows in the knee
MRI is the gold-standard imaging tool for the soft tissues that make up most of the knee's moving parts. A single scan can assess:
- Menisci — the cartilage pads that cushion and stabilise the joint
- Ligaments — including the ACL, PCL, MCL and LCL
- Articular cartilage — the smooth surface on the ends of the bones
- Tendons — particularly the patella and quadriceps tendons
- Bone marrow — stress reactions and bone bruising that X-rays miss
Because MRI uses no radiation, it's suitable for patients of all ages and can be repeated if follow-up is needed.
When should you consider a private knee MRI?
Not every knee problem needs a scan straight away, but it's worth considering one if:
- Pain has persisted for four to six weeks or more despite rest and basic treatment
- You heard or felt a pop at the time of injury
- The knee is locking, clicking persistently or giving way
- Swelling keeps returning after activity
- You want clarity before deciding whether physiotherapy, injection or surgery is the right route
What happens at Northwest Health
You don't need a referral from your NHS GP. Our own GP carries out a short pre-scan review to confirm MRI is appropriate and safe for you — checking for metal implants or contraindications. The scan itself typically takes around 30–40 minutes.
Your images are then reported by a consultant radiologist, with the written report usually available within three to five working days. Urgent turnaround can be arranged if needed. You'll have the opportunity to discuss what the report means for your next steps, whether that's a physiotherapy plan, a guided injection, or onward referral.
How much does a private knee MRI cost in Preston?
A knee MRI is a single-area scan, priced at £400 at Northwest Health — this includes the GP pre-scan review, the scan itself, and the full consultant radiologist report. If you'd like the opposite knee or an adjacent area (such as the hip) scanned in the same session, two areas are £600.
Getting back to what matters
Whether you're trying to get back to sport, return to work comfortably, or simply understand why your knee isn't right, a clear diagnosis is the starting point. Many people find that having a report — even one that shows nothing serious — gives them confidence to commit to the right rehabilitation.
Speak to our team
Book a consultation and we'll build a plan around you. Most enquiries answered the same day.