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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Why the Pain Relief Clinic is Our Preferred Choice for MRI in Singapore

Health & Wellness, Medical Imaging | 2025 Oct

Getting an accurate and timely MRI scan is crucial for diagnosing musculoskeletal and nerve-related pain. In Singapore, the Pain Relief Clinic has become a top choice for patients seeking fast, reliable, and affordable imaging—and here’s why.

1. Same-day, Convenient MRI in the Same Location

The clinic offers on-site MRI scanning, consultation, and report in one location, so patients can complete the entire process without multiple appointments. Most scans are completed within 1 working day, allowing you to get a diagnosis and begin treatment quickly.

2. Affordable MRI Under $1,000 with Medisave, Insurance, and Cashless Options

Paying for an MRI has never been easier. At the Pain Relief Clinic, you can use Medisave for partial coverage, claim through insurance, or opt for the cashless service with no upfront payment. With prices under $1,000, it’s one of the most affordable MRI options in Singapore.

3. Specialist Radiologist Report Included

Every MRI scan comes with a detailed report by a specialist radiologist at no additional cost. This ensures your images are accurately interpreted, helping your doctor create the most effective treatment plan without delays or extra fees.

4. Radiation-Free Imaging

The clinic’s high-resolution MRI is non-invasive and radiation-free, capable of detecting ligament, tendon, cartilage, and nerve injuries that X-rays often miss. This makes it ideal for diagnosing chronic pain, sports injuries, and post-trauma conditions.

5. Expertise in Pain and Musculoskeletal Conditions

The Pain Relief Clinic focuses on back, knee, shoulder, hip, neck, and joint pain. They also provide non-surgical treatments and physiotherapy, offering a complete approach from diagnosis to recovery.

6. Prevent Unnecessary Procedures

Accurate MRI imaging and interpretation can help avoid unnecessary surgeries and repetitive alternative therapy. Early detection of ligament tears, cartilage damage, or nerve compression allows for targeted, effective, and safer treatment.

Conclusion

With MRI scans under $1,000, Medisave options, insurance coverage, cashless service, on-site imaging, and specialist radiologist reports, the Pain Relief Clinic offers a convenient, fast, and affordable solution for MRI in Singapore. Get accurate diagnosis and start effective treatment—all in one place.

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Shoulder Pain Treatment in Singapore: Trusted Doctors and Non-Surgical Solutions for Lasting Relief

shoulder pain | 2025 May

Shoulder pain can make daily activities like dressing, reaching, or even sleeping uncomfortable — especially if the pain has been going on for weeks or months. It may come from a rotator cuff injury, impingement, frozen shoulder, or simply wear and tear over time.

If you’re looking for shoulder pain treatment in Singapore, you’re in good hands. Whether you need a surgical opinion or prefer to try non-surgical options first, this guide will introduce recommended doctors for shoulder pain along with recovery-focused clinics to help you heal safely and effectively.

Recommended Doctors for Shoulder Pain in Singapore

1. Dr. Benjamin Seah – Orthopaedic & Sports Surgeon, Total Orthopaedic Surgery

Dr. Benjamin Seah is a consultant orthopaedic and trauma surgeon with a special interest in shoulder, knee, and sports injuries. He treats conditions like rotator cuff tears, shoulder instability, and labral injuries using both arthroscopic (keyhole) and open techniques. Patients appreciate his calm, structured approach and focus on long-term joint function.

2. Dr. Bryan Tan – Shoulder, Elbow & Sports Surgeon, DrBryanTan.com

Dr. Bryan Tan is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon who focuses on shoulder and elbow conditions. His expertise includes frozen shoulder, rotator cuff repair, shoulder arthritis, and sports-related shoulder injuries. He believes in combining surgical precision with active rehabilitation to help patients return to full mobility and performance.

Want to Avoid Surgery for Shoulder Pain?

The Pain Relief Clinic – Non-Surgical Shoulder Pain Solutions

If your condition is not too severe, or if you’d like to try non-invasive care first, The Pain Relief Clinic provides a medical approach to treating shoulder pain without surgery or injections.

Led by Dr. Terence Tan, the clinic uses a range of technologies to reduce inflammation, relieve stiffness, and restore shoulder movement, such as:

  • Shockwave Therapy – to stimulate healing in tendons

  • HotHeal Radiofrequency Therapy – to reduce joint inflammation

  • Electromedical Therapy – to correct posture-related shoulder tension

? “We often help patients with frozen shoulder, impingement, or tendon inflammation recover faster without injections or surgery.” – Dr. Terence Tan

Post-Surgery Rehab Support for the Shoulder

The Pain Relief Practice – Faster Recovery After Shoulder Surgery

If you’ve had surgery for rotator cuff repair, labral repair, or frozen shoulder release, rehab is key to regaining mobility and avoiding long-term stiffness.

The Pain Relief Practice offers recovery-focused therapy, including:

  • TECAR Therapy to reduce swelling and improve circulation

  • Manual Therapy & Medical Massage to restore range of motion

  • Strengthening & Functional Training for long-term joint support

Their programs are customised for shoulder recovery, helping patients return to work, sport, or daily activities quickly and safely.

Summary for Patients Considering Shoulder Pain Care in Singapore

If you’ve been struggling with shoulder pain and are unsure what to do next, Singapore offers excellent care options — from expert orthopaedic surgeons to modern non-invasive treatment clinics.

-Get a consultation with a trusted doctor like Dr. Benjamin Seah or Dr. Bryan Tan
-Consider trying non-surgical treatments at The Pain Relief Clinic
-Recover well with proper rehabilitation at The Pain Relief Practice

Taking early action can help you avoid complications and return to normal life with confidence.

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