Wrist Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Wrist Pain With Normal X-rays

What does it mean to have wrist pain with a normal X-ray?

This occurs when wrist pain persists or worsens, but X-rays do not show fractures or obvious bone problems. X-rays mainly assess bones, while many wrist issues involve ligaments, cartilage, tendons, and small joint structures that X-rays cannot visualise.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean my wrist is fine?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

  • Ligament injuries (e.g. scapholunate ligament)

  • Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries

  • Tendon inflammation or tears

  • Cartilage damage

  • Early stress injury

MRI is often required to identify these causes accurately.

When should an MRI be considered for wrist pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Wrist pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain keeps recurring

  • There is weakness or loss of grip strength

  • Pain worsens with lifting, twisting, or weight-bearing

  • Swelling or clicking is present

  • Physiotherapy or rest has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain the symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed images of:

  • Wrist ligaments and cartilage

  • TFCC structures

  • Tendons and tendon sheaths

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Joint fluid and inflammation

This allows clinicians to pinpoint the exact source of wrist pain.

Is MRI especially useful after a fall or sports injury?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when wrist pain:

  • Started after a fall onto the hand

  • Followed a twisting or impact injury

  • Occurs during sports or repetitive manual work

MRI helps assess ligament and cartilage injuries that are commonly missed on X-ray.

How long does it take to get a wrist MRI in Singapore?

Waiting time depends on the pathway:

  • Public hospitals:
    Non-urgent outpatient wrist 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, wrist MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does a wrist 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 wrist MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing uncertainty

Do I need to go to a separate imaging centre for the MRI?

Often, yes. Many care pathways require:

  • Seeing a doctor at one location

  • Travelling to a separate imaging centre

  • Returning 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 wrist 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 cost
    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 wrist injuries that affect work and daily function.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of wrist pain is explained clearly

  • Next steps may include targeted conservative care, monitoring, or referral if needed

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays and ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

Wrist pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves ligament or cartilage injury. MRI frequently provides the clarity needed to guide appropriate 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

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Hip Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

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 or groin pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, advanced arthritis, or obvious joint problems. X-rays mainly assess bone structure, but many hip conditions involve cartilage, labrum, tendons, muscles, or bone marrow, which are not visible on X-ray.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean my hip joint is healthy?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

  • Labral tears

  • Cartilage damage

  • Tendon or muscle injury

  • Stress reactions or early stress fractures

  • Early degenerative or inflammatory changes

MRI is often needed to identify these 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, stairs, or prolonged standing

  • There is reduced range of motion or stiffness

  • Pain affects sleep or daily activities

  • Physiotherapy or medication has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI can visualise:

  • Hip labrum and cartilage

  • Tendons and muscles around the hip

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Joint fluid or inflammation

  • Subtle stress injuries

This allows clinicians to pinpoint the true source of hip pain.

Is MRI particularly useful for sports-related or groin pain?

Yes. MRI is especially helpful when hip pain:

  • Started after running, sports, or sudden twisting

  • Is felt deep in the groin

  • Causes reduced confidence in movement

MRI helps assess labral injuries, tendon problems, and early stress injuries accurately.

How long does it take to get a hip MRI in Singapore?

Waiting time depends on the care 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 with 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 financial uncertainty

Do I need to travel to another imaging centre for the MRI?

In many care pathways, yes. Patients often need to:

  • See 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 cost
    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 unexpected or ongoing hip pain expenses.

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 and ineffective treatment cycles.

Key Takeaway

Hip pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves soft tissue or early joint pathology. MRI frequently provides the 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

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Foot Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Foot Pain With Normal X-rays

What does it mean to have foot pain with a normal X-ray?

This means foot pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, dislocation, or obvious bone disease. X-rays mainly show bones, but many causes of foot pain involve soft tissues, cartilage, ligaments, tendons, or early stress injury, which are not visible on X-ray.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean my foot is fine?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

  • Stress reactions or early stress fractures

  • Plantar fascia injury

  • Tendon injuries (e.g. Achilles, posterior tibial tendon)

  • Ligament sprains

  • Cartilage or joint surface problems

MRI is often needed to detect these issues.

When should an MRI be considered for foot pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Foot pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain worsens with walking or weight-bearing

  • There is swelling or tenderness at a specific spot

  • Pain affects work, exercise, or daily mobility

  • Physiotherapy or rest has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain the symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI can visualise:

  • Tendons and ligaments

  • Plantar fascia

  • Bone marrow stress changes

  • Cartilage and joint surfaces

  • Soft-tissue inflammation or tears

This helps pinpoint the true source of foot pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or walking-related foot pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly useful when foot pain:

  • Started after increased walking, running, or training

  • Is localised to one area

  • Causes limping or reduced tolerance for standing

MRI helps identify overuse injuries and soft-tissue problems early.

How long does it take to get a foot MRI in Singapore?

Timing depends on the pathway:

  • Public hospitals:
    Non-urgent outpatient foot MRI scans may involve waiting weeks or more, depending on demand.

  • Private or clinic-based options:
    MRI scans are usually arranged faster.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, foot MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does a foot MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan type:

  • 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 foot 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:

  • See a doctor at one clinic

  • 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 foot 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 cost
    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 prolonged or activity-limiting foot pain.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of foot pain is explained clearly

  • Next steps may include targeted conservative care, monitoring, or referral if needed

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatment.

Key Takeaway

Foot pain with a normal X-ray is common, especially in active or walking-heavy lifestyles. MRI often provides the missing clarity needed to move forward safely.

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

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Hip Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

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

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Shoulder Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Shoulder Pain With Normal X-rays

What does it mean to have shoulder pain with a normal X-ray?

This means shoulder pain persists even though X-rays do not show fractures, dislocation, or significant arthritis. X-rays mainly assess bones, but many shoulder problems involve tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissues, which are not visible on X-ray.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean my shoulder is fine?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

  • Rotator cuff tears or tendinopathy

  • Labral tears

  • Bursitis

  • Tendon inflammation

  • Early joint or cartilage problems

MRI is often required to identify these conditions accurately.

When should an MRI be considered for shoulder pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Shoulder pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain keeps recurring

  • There is weakness or limited range of motion

  • Pain worsens with lifting or overhead activity

  • Night pain disrupts sleep

  • Physiotherapy or medication has not helped

  • X-rays do not explain symptoms

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed imaging of:

  • Rotator cuff tendons

  • Shoulder labrum

  • Bursa and joint fluid

  • Muscles and ligaments

  • Bone marrow changes

This allows clinicians to identify the true source of shoulder pain.

Is MRI especially useful for sports or work-related shoulder pain?

Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when shoulder pain:

  • Started after sports, exercise, or lifting

  • Involves sudden pulling or overhead motion

  • Causes weakness or loss of confidence in the shoulder

MRI helps assess rotator cuff, labral, or tendon injuries accurately.

How long does it take to get a shoulder MRI in Singapore?

Waiting time depends on where you go:

  • Public hospitals:
    Non-urgent outpatient shoulder MRI scans may involve waiting weeks or more, depending on demand.

  • Private or clinic-based options:
    MRI scans are typically arranged much faster.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, shoulder MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does a shoulder MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan type:

  • 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 shoulder MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

Do I need to go to a separate imaging centre for the MRI?

In many cases, yes. Patients often need to:

  • See a doctor at one clinic

  • 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 shoulder 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 cost
    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 unexpected or prolonged shoulder issues.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of shoulder 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

Shoulder pain with a normal X-ray is common and often involves soft-tissue injury. MRI frequently provides the clarity needed to guide appropriate 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

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