A system and method are presented that facilitate imaging of the joints of the upper and lower extremities including, for example, the hip and shoulder as well as sections of the spine, among others. One embodiment of the invention includes a short bore cylindrical magnet with an imaging volume smaller than that of a comparable whole body system, an articulated table that allows placement of the joint to be imaged in the center of the magnet homogeneous volume while maintaining a high degree of patient comfort and openness. The gradient and RF coils may be positioned above and below the patient instead of 360 degrees surrounding the patient. A smaller RF and gradient coil is made feasible because of the reduced imaging volume.