Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has become a preferred method for diagnosing potential problems in many different parts of the body. While x-rays are best for showing bones, MRI creates pictures that can show differences between healthy and unhealthy tissue – like organs, muscle, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons in many parts of the body. That means MRI is helpful when looking at the brain, heart, spinal column, breast, abdomen, pelvic region and joints.