Ankle Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

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

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Hip Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Hip Pain With Normal X-rays

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

This means hip pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, dislocation, or advanced arthritis. X-rays mainly assess bone structure, but many hip problems involve cartilage, labrum, tendons, muscles, or early joint changes, which are not visible on X-ray.

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

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

  • Labral tears

  • Early cartilage damage

  • Tendon or muscle injury

  • Hip impingement (FAI)

  • Inflammation around the joint

MRI is often needed to identify these less visible causes.

When should an MRI be considered for hip pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Hip or groin pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain keeps recurring

  • Pain worsens with walking, running, or prolonged sitting

  • There is stiffness, catching, or reduced range of motion

  • Physiotherapy or medication has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain the symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed imaging of:

  • Hip labrum

  • Articular cartilage

  • Tendons and muscles

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Joint inflammation or fluid

This allows clinicians to pinpoint the exact source of hip pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or activity-related hip pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when hip pain:

  • Started after sports or exercise

  • Involves twisting, pivoting, or running

  • Causes deep groin pain or clicking sensations

MRI helps assess labral injury, cartilage damage, or tendon pathology.

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

Waiting time depends on the pathway:

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

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

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

How much does a hip MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan details:

  • 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 hip MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing uncertainty

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

In many care pathways, yes. Patients often need to:

  • Consult 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 hip 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 costs
    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 persistent or activity-limiting hip pain.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of hip pain is explained clearly

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

Hip pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves cartilage, labral, or soft-tissue problems. MRI frequently provides the clarity needed to guide proper care.

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

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Shoulder Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Shoulder Pain With Normal X-rays

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

This means shoulder pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, dislocation, or significant arthritis. X-rays mainly assess bones, but many shoulder problems involve tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissues, which are not visible on X-ray.

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

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

  • Rotator cuff tears or tendinopathy

  • Labral tears

  • Bursitis

  • Tendon inflammation

  • Early joint or cartilage problems

MRI is often required to identify these conditions accurately.

When should an MRI be considered for shoulder pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Shoulder pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain keeps recurring

  • There is weakness or limited range of motion

  • Pain worsens with lifting or overhead activity

  • Night pain disrupts sleep

  • Physiotherapy or medication has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed imaging of:

  • Rotator cuff tendons

  • Shoulder labrum

  • Bursa and joint fluid

  • Muscles and ligaments

  • Bone marrow changes

This allows clinicians to identify the true source of shoulder pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or work-related shoulder pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when shoulder pain:

  • Started after sports, exercise, or lifting

  • Involves sudden pulling or overhead motion

  • Causes weakness or loss of confidence in the shoulder

MRI helps assess rotator cuff, labral, or tendon injuries accurately.

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

Waiting time depends on where you go:

  • Public hospitals:
    Non-urgent outpatient shoulder 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, shoulder MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does a shoulder 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 shoulder MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

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

In many cases, 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 shoulder 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 unexpected or prolonged shoulder issues.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of shoulder pain is explained clearly

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

Shoulder pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves soft-tissue injury. MRI frequently provides the clarity needed to guide appropriate care.

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

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Knee Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Knee Pain With Normal X-rays

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

This situation occurs when knee pain persists or worsens, but X-rays do not show fractures, arthritis, or obvious bone problems. X-rays mainly visualise bones and joint space, but they cannot assess soft tissues such as cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or menisci.

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

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

  • Meniscus tears

  • Ligament injuries (ACL, MCL, PCL, LCL)

  • Cartilage damage

  • Tendon or soft-tissue injury

  • Early joint degeneration

MRI is often needed to identify these hidden causes.

When should an MRI be considered for knee pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Knee pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain keeps recurring

  • There is swelling, locking, or giving way

  • Pain affects walking, sports, or work

  • Physiotherapy or medication has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain the symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed images of:

  • Menisci (cartilage cushions)

  • Ligaments and tendons

  • Articular cartilage

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Fluid or inflammation within the joint

This allows doctors to pinpoint the exact source of knee pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or activity-related knee pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when knee pain:

  • Started after sports or exercise

  • Is associated with twisting or sudden movement

  • Causes instability or reduced confidence in the knee

MRI helps assess whether the injury involves ligaments, cartilage, or meniscus.

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

Waiting time depends on the pathway:

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

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

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

How much does a knee MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary depending on provider and scan complexity:

  • 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 knee 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:

  • Consult 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 knee 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 costs
    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 knee pain affects mobility and daily function.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of knee pain is explained clearly

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or inappropriate treatment.

Key Takeaway

Knee pain with a normal X-ray is common—and often frustrating. MRI frequently provides the missing clarity needed to move forward confidently.

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

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Tailbone (Coccyx) Pain: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Tailbone (Coccyx) Pain

What is tailbone (coccyx) pain?

Tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia, refers to pain at the very bottom of the spine where the coccyx is located. It is often felt when sitting, leaning back, or rising from a seated position, and can be sharp, aching, or persistent.

What commonly causes coccyx pain?

Common causes include:

  • Falls or direct trauma (e.g. slipping and landing on the buttocks)

  • Prolonged sitting on hard surfaces

  • Repetitive strain or poor sitting posture

  • Childbirth-related strain

  • Degenerative or inflammatory changes

In some cases, the cause is not obvious on X-rays.

Does tailbone pain always require an MRI?

No. Many cases improve with:

  • Activity modification

  • Cushion support

  • Time and conservative care

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Symptoms are worsening or recurrent

  • Pain significantly affects sitting, work, or sleep

  • X-rays do not explain ongoing symptoms

  • Treatment decisions depend on knowing the exact cause

What can an MRI show that X-rays may miss?

MRI can evaluate:

  • Soft-tissue inflammation around the coccyx

  • Ligament or muscle injury

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Subtle fractures or stress injury

  • Less common structural causes of pain

X-rays mainly show alignment and fractures but often miss soft-tissue and inflammatory causes.

When is MRI especially helpful for coccyx pain?

MRI is often useful when:

  • Pain started after a fall and did not resolve

  • Sitting pain is severe or persistent

  • Symptoms do not improve despite physiotherapy or medication

  • Pain is unexplained and ongoing

  • There is concern about deeper structural issues

How long does it take to get an MRI for tailbone pain in Singapore?

Timing depends on the care pathway:

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

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

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

How much does an MRI for coccyx pain 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 coccyx or lower spine MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

Do I need to go to another imaging centre for the MRI?

In many pathways, patients must:

  • 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 of care

Can Medisave be used for MRI scans for tailbone pain?

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

Patients can clarify:

  • Eligibility for Medisave usage

  • 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 unexpected or persistent pain-related expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of coccyx pain is explained clearly

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

Clear imaging helps avoid prolonged uncertainty and ineffective treatment cycles.

Key Takeaway

Tailbone pain is uncomfortable and often disruptive, especially when sitting. When symptoms persist or X-rays do not explain the pain, MRI can provide crucial clarity.

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

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