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