FAQ: MRI for Foot Pain With Normal X-rays

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

This means foot pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, dislocation, or obvious bone disease. X-rays mainly show bones, but many causes of foot pain involve soft tissues, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or early stress injury, which are not visible on X-ray.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean my foot is fine?

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

• Stress reactions or early stress fractures

• Plantar fascia injury

• Tendon injuries (e.g. Achilles, posterior tibial tendon)

• Ligament sprains

• Cartilage or joint surface problems

MRI is often needed to detect these issues.

When should an MRI be considered for foot pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

• Foot pain persists beyond a few weeks

• Pain worsens with walking or weight-bearing

• There is swelling or tenderness at a specific spot

• Pain affects work, exercise, or daily mobility

• Physiotherapy or rest has not helped

• X-rays do not explain the symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI can visualise:

• Tendons and ligaments

• Plantar fascia

• Bone marrow stress changes

• Cartilage and joint surfaces

• Soft-tissue inflammation or tears

This helps pinpoint the true source of foot pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or walking-related foot pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly useful when foot pain:

• Started after increased walking, running, or training

• Is localised to one area

• Causes limping or reduced tolerance for standing

MRI helps identify overuse injuries and soft-tissue problems early.

How long does it take to get a foot MRI in Singapore?

Timing depends on the pathway:

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

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

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

How much does a foot MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan type:

• Public hospitals:
  Lower out-of-pocket cost due to 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 foot MRI scans

  • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing 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 clinic

• 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 foot 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 helps manage prolonged or activity-limiting foot pain.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

• Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

• The cause of foot 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

Foot pain with a normal X-ray is common, especially in active or walking-heavy lifestyles. MRI often provides the missing clarity needed to move forward safely.

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