Can an x-ray show torn ligaments in the knee

Note: This is the first post in a three-part series discussing the use of xray and MRI in an orthopedic sports medicine practice. There seems to be a good deal of confusion among the general public and physicians as well about when to order xrays and/or an MRI.

I expect that this series and the underlying premise (xrays are very helpful and should be routinely ordered, while MRIs are utilized far too frequently) will not be a universally accepted opinion. I would like for the reader to understand the basic concept of each test in order to understand why their physician orders tests to evaluate sports injuries.

One of the questions I’ve frequently get in the office when I’m evaluating a patient for a new sports injuries is whether or not I need to order an xray.

To answer that I need to explain why many people don’t feel like they are necessary.

What does an mri show that an x ray does not

As you may or may not know, xrays just show bones. They don’t show soft tissue structures like the tendons, ligaments, meniscus in the knee, muscles, cartilage, etc. Many people correctly assume

does an x ray show tendon tears

will an x ray show ligament tears