What Happens If You Move During an MRI?
Updated: 4 days ago
If you move during an MRI, the pictures can come out blurry or show streaks and "ghost" shadows. A small shift may not matter, but bigger movement can hide details your doctor needs to see. When that happens, the technologist usually repeats that part of the scan, which makes your appointment longer.
The good news: moving won't hurt you or damage the machine. And there are simple ways to help yourself stay still.
Why movement matters in an MRI
An MRI doesn't take one quick snapshot like a camera. It collects signals from your body over several minutes, then a computer builds those signals into images. The scan is done as a series of sets, sometimes called sequences, and each set can last from under a minute to several minutes.
If you move partway through a set, the computer gets mixed signals from two different positions. That's what causes blur and other errors in the pictures. You can learn more about the process in our article on how an MRI works.
What movement does to the images
Radiologists call these image problems motion artifacts. The most common are:
Artifact | What it looks like |
Blurring | Edges of tissues and organs look soft or smeared |
Ghosting | Faint copies of a body part appear repeated across the image |
Streaks | Lines or bands run across the picture |
These artifacts can make small details hard to see. That matters because MRI is often used to look at small structures, like a ligament tear, a disc problem, or a spot in the brain. To read more about image clarity, see understanding the factors that affect image quality in MRI machines.
What kinds of movement cause problems?
Not all movement is the same:
Big movements: shifting position, turning your head, lifting an arm, or crossing your legs
Small movements: fidgeting, tapping fingers or toes, swallowing a lot, or talking during a set
Body movements you can't fully control: breathing, heartbeat, and the natural movement of your stomach and intestines
The technologist plans for the movements you can't control. For example, for chest or belly scans, you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time.
What happens if you do move?
Don't panic. Technologists watch the images as the scan goes. If a set comes out blurry, they will usually:
Talk to you through the intercom and remind you to stay still
Help you get more comfortable, if needed
Repeat the set that was affected
Repeating a set adds time, but it is often a short fix. In some cases, if a patient can't stay still at all, the scan may need to be stopped and rescheduled, or your doctor may talk with you about other options. Many modern scanners also use software that can reduce some motion blur, but no software can fix large movements.
What if you need to scratch, cough, or sneeze?
It happens. Try to wait until the machine goes quiet between sets. If you can't wait, it's better to tell the technologist than to move without warning. Use the call button or speak up. They can pause and restart the set.
What if you feel panicky?
Squeeze the call button. You are never trapped, and the technologist can talk with you or stop the scan. Our guide on how to overcome claustrophobia during an MRI has tips that many patients find helpful.
How to stay still during your MRI
Before the scan
Use the restroom right before you go in
Wear comfortable, metal-free clothes so you don't feel itchy or restricted
Tell the staff if you have pain that makes lying flat hard
Ask how long your scan will take so you know what to expect
Get comfortable first
Tell the technologist if something doesn't feel right before the scan starts. Pillows, pads, wedges, and blankets can be adjusted. A position that feels fine for one minute may not feel fine for twenty, so speak up early.
During the scan
Breathe slowly and evenly. Calm breathing helps your body relax.
Close your eyes. Many people feel less closed in this way.
Relax your muscles. Let your body sink into the table instead of holding tension.
Listen for the breaks. The machine goes quiet between sets. That's the best time to swallow or ask a question.
Follow breath-hold instructions if you are given them.
Use the noise. The knocking sounds are normal. Some people count the beats to stay focused. Learn more about why MRIs are so loud.
If you take medicine to relax
Some people with anxiety or pain ask their doctor about medicine to help them stay calm and still. This is a decision for you and your doctor. If you take anything that makes you drowsy, plan for someone to drive you home.
Children and movement
Young children often have a hard time lying still. Simple preparation, like practicing "statue" games at home, can help. Some young children need sedation for a clear scan, which is usually done in a hospital setting. Read pediatric MRI: what parents need to know for more.
Frequently asked questions
Will moving during an MRI hurt me?
No. Moving doesn't cause harm or damage the machine. It mainly affects the quality of the pictures.
Can I move between scans?
The machine goes quiet between sets. Small movements, like swallowing, are often fine then. Ask the technologist before you shift your position, because your body part needs to stay lined up for the next set.
What if I have to cough or sneeze?
Try to wait for a quiet break. If you can't, tell the technologist so they can pause and repeat the set if needed.
Will I have to come back if I moved?
Usually not. The technologist can often repeat the affected set during the same visit. Rarely, a scan may need to be rescheduled.
Can I talk during an MRI?
Talking moves your head, jaw, and chest, so stay quiet while the machine is running. You can talk with the technologist during breaks or use the call button if you need help.
Related reading
Schedule an MRI at Millenium MRI
Millenium MRI has centers in Ocala, Largo, and Tamarac, Florida, and in North Little Rock, Springdale, Jonesboro, and Marion, Arkansas. Our ARRT-certified technologists will help you get comfortable and talk you through each step. Same-day appointments are often available, and we accept most insurance plans, workers' compensation, personal injury cases, and self-pay. Hours are Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm. Call your nearest center or request an appointment online.
This article is for general information and is not medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific situation.
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