Q1: My elbow hurts constantly after repetitive activities like typing or sports. Should I get an MRI?
Yes. Chronic elbow pain from repetitive strain may indicate tendon microtears (lateral or medial epicondylitis), ligament injuries, or early joint degeneration. Physical exams and X-rays often cannot detect these subtle but clinically significant injuries. MRI provides high-resolution, radiation-free images of tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and surrounding soft tissues for precise diagnosis.

Q2: Can rest, physiotherapy, or braces fix overuse elbow pain without MRI?
These approaches may reduce symptoms temporarily but cannot confirm the underlying structural issue. Continuing therapy without MRI may prolong pain and delay recovery, especially if a tendon or ligament tear is present.

Q3: What are the risks of delaying MRI for chronic overuse elbow pain?
Delaying MRI risks worsening tendon or ligament injuries, chronic pain, decreased grip strength, limited motion, and possibly requiring surgical intervention later. Early MRI allows timely, non-surgical treatments to prevent long-term damage.

Q4: Why is MRI superior to X-ray, CT, or ultrasound for overuse injuries?
X-rays detect only bone alignment issues, CT is limited for soft tissue, and ultrasound may miss deep tendon or ligament tears. MRI provides clear, comprehensive, radiation-free imaging of all structures in the elbow, making it the gold standard for diagnosis.

Q5: Where can I get a fast, affordable MRI for chronic elbow pain?
The Pain Relief Clinic provides insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, completed within 1 working day, along with non-surgical treatments to help you recover safely and return to work or sports.