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An ankle MRI shows ligaments, tendons, cartilage and bone in detail. Learn when it's used after a sprain or injury, how to prepare and how Medicare referrals work.
Also called: MRI ankle, foot and ankle MRI, Achilles MRI, ankle ligament MRI
Find a clinic for your ankle MRI
43 clinics offer bulk billing for MRI — eligibility varies
Where to get an ankle MRI
44 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer MRI.
Clinics for an ankle MRI on Radly
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What is an ankle MRI?
An ankle MRI takes detailed pictures of the ligaments, tendons (including the Achilles), cartilage and bones of the ankle and hindfoot. It helps when an injury isn't settling as expected or when your doctor suspects damage that doesn't show on X-ray.
Only your foot and lower leg go into the scanner, which most people find comfortable. Your ankle sits in a padded coil and you'll need to keep it still. Contrast is rarely needed.
Why your doctor might request an ankle MRI
- A sprain that hasn't healed after several weeks
- Suspected ligament or tendon tear
- Achilles tendon problems
- Suspected cartilage injury or bone bruise in the ankle joint
- Suspected stress fracture
Ankle MRI: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your ankle MRI
- Complete the metal safety questionnaire and mention screws or plates from past surgery
- Wear loose trousers or shorts that can roll up easily
- Remove jewellery and anything metallic
- Bring previous ankle X-rays or ultrasound reports
How long it takes: About 20–30 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Adult ankle MRI generally needs a specialist referral to attract a Medicare rebate, and must be done on a Medicare-eligible machine. GP-referred ankle MRI is usually private for adults, with broader GP options for children under 16. The clinic will confirm whether your referral is Medicare-eligible. Booking through Radly sends a request, and the clinic confirms the time with you.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your ankle MRI and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Ankle MRI FAQs
Is an ankle MRI covered by Medicare on a GP referral?
For adults, usually not — it is generally private unless referred by a specialist. The clinic will confirm for your referral.
Do I need an MRI for a sprained ankle?
Most sprains heal without one. MRI is usually considered if the ankle stays painful, swollen or unstable after several weeks.
How long does an ankle MRI take?
Usually 20–30 minutes in the scanner.
How do I book an ankle MRI online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select MRI as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get an ankle MRI?
Appointments for MRI are usually 3 days to 2 weeks, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
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