MRI neurography is a specialized MRI technique that produces high-resolution images of peripheral nerves and surrounding tissues. It uses targeted sequences (fat suppression, high-resolution T2-weighted and sometimes diffusion imaging) to reveal nerve compression, inflammation, injury, entrapment, or tumors. It's non-invasive, radiation-free, can use contrast when needed, and helps guide diagnosis, surgical planning, and treatment monitoring.

MRI of the lower limb is a non‑invasive imaging test that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the leg’s bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and blood vessels. It helps diagnose injuries, soft‑tissue tears, infections, tumours, arthritis and vascular problems. No radiation is used; scans take 20–60 minutes. Metal implants and pregnancy require special consideration; contrast dye may be used.

Neurography is an imaging method that visualizes peripheral nerves and their surrounding tissues, most commonly using magnetic resonance (MR) or high-resolution ultrasound. It maps nerve anatomy and detects abnormalities such as compression, inflammation, entrapment, trauma, tumors, or demyelination. MR neurography gives detailed nerve signal and structural information to guide diagnosis, treatment planning, and surgical decisions.

MRI can visualize structural causes of leg nerve problems—disc herniation, tumors, inflammation or nerve swelling—and advanced MR neurography can image peripheral nerves and detect entrapment or injury. Contrast-enhanced studies and specialized sequences improve detection. However, MRI may miss microscopic or purely functional/axonal damage; electrodiagnostic tests (EMG/NCS) are often needed to assess nerve function and severity alongside clinical evaluation.

MRI is a powerful tool that can detect many neurological diseases by showing structural and vascular changes—tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis lesions, infections, demyelination, and some degenerative or congenital abnormalities. Its sensitivity varies by condition, timing, and scan techniques (contrast, advanced sequences, fMRI). Some early biochemical or functional disorders may be missed, so doctors often combine MRI with clinical exam and other tests (EEG, PET, CSF).

MR neurography is performed and interpreted by radiologists—often neuroradiologists or musculoskeletal radiologists—who design protocols and read the studies. MRI technologists operate the scanner and position the patient. Referring clinicians (neurologists, neurosurgeons, orthopedists) order the exam. Contrast administration and any image-guided procedures are carried out by radiologists or trained medical staff under their supervision.