Hello!
If you do not want to spend for the MRI, then go for an orthopedic consultancy.
A good orthopedician can do a clinical examination in diagnosing any ligament tears and if he suspects then you may need an MRI or arthroscopy but MRI is not compulsory in all cases.
Take care!
Hi KiKi, an MRI can see soft tissue damage, i've had several. i would suggest if you go to see an orthopedic doctor you look for one that just work on knees. i've had better results withsports medicine doctors. good luck and i hope you find work
Hi KiKi, from my past injuries a MRI always showed soft tissue damage (tears) and the x-rays gave indication of arthritis, broken bones or loss of bone spacing. not sure if this will halp but check out this site http://www.webmd.com/ good luck