Q1: My elbow or wrist pain is limiting my work or sports performance. Should I get an MRI?
Yes. Persistent pain that affects daily activities, work, or sports may indicate tendon tears, ligament injuries, cartilage damage, or early arthritis. X-rays may appear normal, and physical exams cannot always confirm the structural problem. MRI provides detailed, radiation-free imaging of bones, ligaments, tendons, and cartilage to pinpoint the exact cause.

Q2: Can therapy, braces, or medication solve performance-limiting pain without MRI?
These treatments may temporarily reduce symptoms but cannot identify underlying structural damage. Without MRI, serious injuries may be missed, prolonging dysfunction and risking worsening of the joint.

Q3: What are the risks of delaying MRI for pain that affects work or sports?
Delaying MRI can allow tendon, ligament, or cartilage injuries to progress, potentially causing chronic pain, loss of strength, limited range of motion, and even early osteoarthritis. Early MRI ensures accurate diagnosis and timely, effective intervention.

Q4: Why is MRI better than X-ray, CT, or ultrasound for elbow or wrist injuries?
X-rays detect only bone abnormalities, CT is less sensitive for soft tissues, and ultrasound may miss deep ligament, tendon, or cartilage damage. MRI provides high-resolution, radiation-free imaging of all relevant structures, enabling precise treatment planning.

Q5: Where can I get a fast, affordable MRI for elbow or wrist pain?
The Pain Relief Clinic provides insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, done within 1 working day, with non-surgical treatments to restore joint function safely and efficiently.