Q1: My foot or ankle has been swollen for months even though X-rays are normal. Should I get an MRI?
Yes. Persistent swelling may be caused by tendon tears (Achilles, peroneal), ligament injuries, bone stress fractures, joint inflammation, or early arthritis. X-rays cannot detect these soft tissue issues, and ultrasound may miss deep or complex injuries. MRI provides high-resolution, radiation-free images of bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and surrounding soft tissue, helping pinpoint the exact cause.

Q2: Can physiotherapy, massage, or rest solve chronic swelling without MRI?
They may provide temporary relief, but they cannot identify the underlying structural problem. If swelling persists despite therapy, MRI is essential to avoid wasting time on ineffective treatments and to detect potentially serious injuries early.

Q3: What risks exist if I delay MRI for chronic swelling?
Untreated injuries can worsen, leading to tendon rupture, ligament instability, nerve compression, or early osteoarthritis. MRI ensures early detection of urgent or progressive conditions, reducing the risk of long-term disability.

Q4: Why is MRI better than X-ray, CT, or ultrasound for swelling?
X-rays only show bone alignment, CT is limited for soft tissue, and ultrasound may miss deep tendon or ligament injuries. MRI clearly visualizes all relevant structures without radiation, making it the gold standard for chronic swelling assessment.

Q5: Where can I get a fast, affordable MRI for foot or ankle swelling?
The Pain Relief Clinic provides insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, completed within 1 working day, with non-surgical treatment options to help you recover safely and regain full mobility.