DTI MRI does not show the damage. It shows evidence of the damage. Brain injury changes the way fluid flows in the white matter. They can see this change in fluid flow.

Think of it this way. If there is oil on your driveway where you park your car, it says you have an oil leak. But, it does not tell you where and why you have a leak or what to do about that leak.

A high Tesla MRI can show the fine damage of a concussion if done early. But, it requires a 6 or greater Tesla MRI magnet. They are usually reserved for research.

But, seeing the damage does not change the treatment so health plans will not spend the money for these expensive and rare MRI's.

If you have a nasty bruise on your arm, it says you are injured. But, there is nothing you can do for the bruise. It just takes time to heal.