MRI of trauma and sports-related injuries of tendons and ligaments. Part I: Spine and upper extremities.

MRI is valuable in evaluation of tendons and ligaments in sports-related injuries. Tendons and ligaments show dark signal intensity on all MR sequences. Alteration in size, shape, continuity, and signal intensity of these structures can be well visualized with MRI. Impingement syndrome is the leading cause of atrophy and degeneration of the rotator cuff. Shape of the acromion, presence of subacromial spur, and involvement in certain sport activities that lead to shoulder instability may cause impingement of the rotator cuff. This article systematically reviews the injuries of tendons and ligaments in the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand.