ObjectiveTo explore the value of MRI in diagnosis of chronic injury of the elbow in young athletes,and to discuss the optimization of imaging sequences.MethodsA total of 34 athletes (40 elbows) aged 6-16 years underwent MR examination on axial,sagittal and coronal planes.The characteristics of MRI were analyzed.ResultsThe anatomy of parenchyma and bones in elbow joint were displayed clearly by using axial TIW,sag T1W,T2W,sag STIR and PDW sequences.The thickening of periosteum and arthroedema were displayed well with sagittal T2W and STIR sequence,while bone marrow,ligament injury and synovitis were displayed well with PDW sequence.ConclusionMRI can display clearly the injury of bones and muscles in young athletes with chronic injury of the elbow.Optimization of imaging sequences is of importance in the depicting and diagnosis of chronic injury of bone and muscles.