FAQ: MRI for Ankle Pain With Normal X-rays

What does it mean to have ankle pain with a normal X-ray?

This means ankle pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures or obvious bone injury. X-rays mainly assess bones, but many ankle problems involve ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or soft tissues, which are not visible on X-ray.

If my ankle X-ray is normal, does that mean nothing is wrong?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

• Ligament sprains or tears

• Tendon injuries (e.g. Achilles, peroneal tendons)

• Cartilage or joint surface damage

• Bone marrow bruising or stress injury

• Sinus tarsi or soft-tissue inflammation

MRI is often needed to identify these causes.

When should an MRI be considered for ankle pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

• Ankle pain persists beyond a few weeks

• Pain keeps recurring after initial improvement

• There is swelling, instability, or giving way

• Pain affects walking, work, or sports

• Physiotherapy or rest has not resolved symptoms

• X-rays do not explain ongoing pain

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed images of:

• Ankle ligaments (ATFL, CFL, deltoid ligament)

• Tendons and tendon sheaths

• Cartilage and joint surfaces

• Bone marrow stress or bruising

• Soft-tissue inflammation and fluid

This helps pinpoint the true source of ankle pain.

Is MRI especially useful after an ankle sprain?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when:

• Pain persists after an ankle sprain

• The ankle feels unstable

• Swelling does not settle

• There is difficulty returning to sports or exercise

MRI helps assess whether there is ligament damage, cartilage injury, or tendon involvement.

How long does it take to get an ankle MRI in Singapore?

Timing depends on the care pathway:

• Public hospitals:
  Non-urgent outpatient ankle MRI scans may involve waiting weeks or more, depending on demand.

• Private or clinic-based options:
  MRI scans are typically arranged much faster.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, ankle MRI scans can usually be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does an ankle MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan details:

• Public hospitals:
  Lower out-of-pocket cost with subsidies, but longer waiting times.

• Private hospitals / imaging centres:
  Higher and often variable pricing.

• The Pain Relief Clinic:

  • Clear upfront pricing, typically under S$1,000 for common outpatient ankle MRI scans

  • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

Do I need to go to a separate imaging centre for the MRI?

In many pathways, yes. Patients often need to:

• See a doctor at one location

• Travel to a separate imaging centre

• Return later for review

At The Pain Relief Clinic:

• MRI coordination is handled within the same clinic system

• No off-site imaging travel

• Faster review and smoother coordination

Can Medisave be used for ankle MRI scans?

Yes. Medisave can be used for outpatient MRI scans, subject to prevailing outpatient diagnostic limits.

Patients can clarify:

• Medisave eligibility

• Expected out-of-pocket cost
  before proceeding.

Are insurance claims or instalment options available?

Depending on coverage, patients at The Pain Relief Clinic may access:

• Insurance claim support (corporate and personal plans, subject to insurer rules)

• Cashless arrangements where applicable

• Interest-free instalment plans

• Cash and card payments

This flexibility is helpful when ankle pain limits mobility or work.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

• Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

• The cause of ankle pain is explained clearly

• Next steps may include targeted conservative care, monitoring, or referral if needed

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatment.

Key Takeaway

Ankle pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves ligament, tendon, or cartilage injury. MRI frequently provides the clarity needed to guide recovery.

In Singapore:

• Public hospitals offer subsidised scans but may involve waiting weeks or more

• Private hospitals provide faster access with variable pricing

• The Pain Relief Clinic offers a practical option with:

  • Clear upfront pricing under S$1,000

  • Fast MRI arrangement

  • No off-site imaging

  • Flexible payment options, including Medisave, insurance, cashless and instalments