Kinematic MRI of the Joints: Functional Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Clinical Applications

Kinematic MRI: A Comprehensive Guide to Dynamic Joint Imaging

Kinematic MRI, a cutting-edge imaging technique, captures a joint’s motion to reveal the intricate interplay between its soft tissues and bony structures. This dynamic approach has emerged due to the recognition that many joint dysfunctions depend on joint position and respond differently to loading and stress.

Unlike static MRI scans, kinematic MRI explores the joint’s full range of motion, unmasking subtle abnormalities that may otherwise go unnoticed. The insights gained from this technique often pinpoint underlying structural issues or complement information gathered from conventional MRI.

This comprehensive textbook, “Kinematic MRI of the Joints,” serves as a pioneering resource in this rapidly evolving field. It meticulously examines each joint, focusing on:

• Functional Anatomy: A thorough breakdown of the joint’s structural components and their roles in movement.
• Kinesiology: An in-depth exploration of the joint’s biomechanics and motion patterns.
• Clinical Significance: Clinical implications of joint dynamics, including common pathologies and their presentations.
• Kinematic MRI Protocol and Technique: A detailed guide to capturing high-quality kinematic MRI images.
• Normal Kinematics: A comprehensive overview of the joint’s expected range and patterns of motion.
• Pathokinematics: An analysis of abnormal joint motion patterns associated with specific pathologies.

The book enriches its content with illustrative case studies that showcase the practical applications of kinematic MRI in diagnosing and unraveling joint disorders. Notably, each chapter represents a collaborative effort between an expert musculoskeletal radiologist, an orthopedic surgeon, and an academic physical therapist/biomechanist, ensuring a comprehensive and multidisciplinary perspective.

By bridging the gap between anatomy, biomechanics, clinical insights, and advanced imaging, “Kinematic MRI of the Joints” empowers clinicians to:

• Comprehend the functional complexities of joints.
• Confidently interpret kinematic MRI findings.
• Enhance the accuracy and specificity of joint diagnoses.
• Develop individualized treatment plans based on a dynamic understanding of joint function.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in musculoskeletal imaging and biomechanics.

This invaluable resource is a must-read for radiologists, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, biomechanists, and researchers seeking to advance their knowledge and expertise in the field of kinematic MRI.