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