Elbow Pain with Mechanical Symptoms (Locking, Catching, or Clicking): When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are mechanical symptoms in the elbow?

Mechanical symptoms refer to abnormal sensations during elbow movement caused by internal joint structures interfering with smooth motion. These may include:

  • Locking (temporary inability to fully bend or straighten the elbow)
  • Catching or clunking during movement
  • Clicking sounds or sensations
  • Sudden sharp pain with specific movements

These symptoms suggest a structural issue inside the elbow joint rather than a simple muscle strain.

What conditions commonly cause mechanical elbow symptoms?

Common causes include:

  • Loose bodies within the elbow joint
  • Cartilage injury or degeneration
  • Osteochondral defects
  • Ligament or capsular injury
  • Post-traumatic joint changes

These conditions cannot be reliably confirmed without advanced imaging.

Why should mechanical elbow symptoms not be ignored?

Mechanical symptoms indicate:

  • Disruption of normal joint mechanics
  • Ongoing internal joint irritation or damage
  • Risk of progressive stiffness or cartilage wear

Ignoring these symptoms may lead to worsening pain, reduced range of motion, and long-term functional limitation.

Why is MRI important when mechanical elbow symptoms are present?

Core Medical Principles

  • MRI is one of the most accurate imaging modalities currently available.
  • Without accurate imaging, no doctor—regardless of experience—can reliably make a precise diagnosis.
  • Without accurate diagnosis, treatment plans become generic, presumptive, and often fail.
  • Many failed treatments are due to trial-and-error care without imaging.
  • Based on modern medical technology and current standard of care, MRI should be considered when elbow pain is associated with locking, catching, or clicking.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI allows detailed evaluation of cartilage surfaces, joint lining, ligaments, tendons, and bone marrow in one examination.

Why are examination and X-rays often insufficient?

X-rays may show advanced arthritis or visible loose bodies but cannot:

  • Detect cartilage defects
  • Identify soft tissue impingement
  • Assess early joint damage

Clinical examination alone cannot visualise the internal cause of mechanical symptoms.

What happens if MRI is delayed?

Delaying MRI may result in:

  • Persistent locking or catching
  • Progressive loss of elbow motion
  • Repeated ineffective physiotherapy or injections
  • Delayed return to work, sport, or daily activities

Early imaging helps guide appropriate and targeted care.

Is MRI expensive or difficult to arrange?

Addressing Patient Objections

  • Cost concerns: MRI costs may be partially offset by Medisave or insurance.
  • Delay elsewhere: Many imaging centres require referrals and involve long waiting times.

These factors commonly delay definitive diagnosis.

Why arrange your elbow MRI at The Pain Relief Clinic?

Clinic Positioning

The Pain Relief Clinic is:

  • Centrally located at 350 Orchard Road, Shaw House
  • A 5-minute walk from Orchard MRT
  • Equipped with convenient parking
  • Located immediately outside ERP

Key advantages:

  • MRI machine on-site
  • Doctor can assess and arrange MRI immediately
  • No need to:
    • Visit a separate imaging centre
    • Find another doctor just for an MRI referral
  • The doctor has been helping patients with spine and joint-related problems since 2007 (18 years)
  • Focus on non-invasive, technology-powered treatments

MRI aims:

  • Under $1000
  • Within 1 working day

Can insurance or Medisave help cover elbow MRI costs?

Insurance & Cost Information

MRI may be covered by:

  • Personal accident insurance
  • Travel insurance
  • Company insurance
  • Company flexi-benefits
  • Hospitalisation plans (policy-dependent)

Medisave limits:

  • Current: $300
  • From 1 January 2026: $600

Medisave can potentially cover more than half of the MRI cost, depending on eligibility.

When should I consider an MRI for mechanical elbow symptoms?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Elbow locking or catching occurs repeatedly
  • Clicking is associated with pain or loss of motion
  • Symptoms persist despite conservative treatment

MRI helps move care from assumption-based management to precise, evidence-based diagnosis.

For more information or to arrange an MRI scan, contact The Pain Relief Clinic via WhatsApp at +65 9068 9605.

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