FAQ: MRI for Ankle Pain With Normal X-rays
What does it mean to have ankle pain with a normal X-ray?
This means ankle pain persists despite X-rays showing no fracture or obvious bone injury. X-rays primarily assess bones, while many ankle problems involve ligaments, tendons, cartilage, or subtle bone stress, which X-rays cannot visualise.
If my X-ray is normal, could there still be an injury?
Yes. A normal X-ray does not rule out:
Ligament sprains or tears (ATFL, CFL, deltoid ligament)
Tendon injuries (Achilles, peroneal tendons)
Cartilage damage or osteochondral lesions
Bone stress reactions
Joint inflammation or soft-tissue injury
MRI is often needed to identify these conditions accurately.
When should an MRI be considered for ankle pain?
An MRI is commonly considered when:
Ankle pain persists beyond a few weeks
Pain keeps recurring after initial improvement
There is swelling, instability, or giving way
Pain worsens with walking, running, or sports
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 imaging of:
Ligaments and tendons
Articular cartilage
Bone marrow stress or bruising
Joint fluid and inflammation
Subtle injuries around the ankle joint
This helps pinpoint the true source of ankle pain.
Is MRI especially useful after an ankle sprain?
Yes. MRI is particularly helpful when ankle pain:
Started after a twist or sprain
Has not settled despite rest and rehabilitation
Is associated with instability or repeated sprains
MRI helps assess whether there is ligament damage, tendon injury, or cartilage involvement.
How long does it take to get an ankle MRI in Singapore?
Waiting time depends on the care pathway:
Public hospitals:
Non-urgent outpatient ankle 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, ankle MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.
How much does an ankle MRI cost in Singapore?
Costs vary by 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 ankle MRI scans
Costs explained before proceeding, reducing uncertainty
Do I need to go to a separate imaging centre for the MRI?
Often, yes. Many patients 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 ankle 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 ankle pain affects mobility and daily activities.
What happens after the MRI?
After imaging:
Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination
The cause of ankle 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
Ankle pain with a normal X-ray is common and often related to ligament, tendon, 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
