Elbow Pain with Numbness, Tingling, or Radiating Symptoms: When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does numbness or tingling around the elbow indicate?

Numbness, tingling, or radiating sensations suggest possible nerve involvement. These symptoms may be felt:

  • Around the elbow
  • Along the forearm
  • Into the hand or fingers

They are often described as pins-and-needles, burning, electric, or shooting sensations.

Which nerves are commonly involved in elbow-related symptoms?

Commonly affected nerves around the elbow include:

  • Ulnar nerve (ring and little finger symptoms)
  • Median nerve (thumb, index, and middle finger symptoms)
  • Radial nerve (back of the forearm or hand symptoms)

Compression, irritation, or injury to these nerves can occur at or near the elbow.

What conditions can cause nerve-related elbow pain?

Possible causes include:

  • Nerve compression from swelling or inflammation
  • Ligament or tendon injury affecting nearby nerves
  • Joint pathology causing internal pressure
  • Post-injury or post-surgical scarring
  • Bone or soft tissue abnormalities near nerve pathways

Accurate identification of the cause is essential, as treatment differs significantly.

Why are nerve-related elbow symptoms difficult to diagnose clinically?

Clinical examination alone cannot reliably:

  • Identify the exact site of nerve irritation
  • Determine whether symptoms originate from the elbow joint or surrounding soft tissues
  • Exclude deeper structural causes

Symptoms may overlap with wrist, shoulder, or cervical spine conditions.

Why is MRI important when elbow pain is associated with numbness or tingling?

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 numbness, tingling, or radiating symptoms.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI allows assessment of the elbow joint, surrounding soft tissues, and structures adjacent to nerve pathways.

Why are examination and X-rays often insufficient?

X-rays primarily assess bone alignment and arthritis. They cannot:

  • Visualise nerves
  • Detect soft tissue swelling affecting nerves
  • Identify subtle bone marrow or joint changes

Physical examination alone cannot determine the internal cause of sensory symptoms.

What happens if MRI is delayed?

Delaying MRI may result in:

  • Persistent or worsening sensory symptoms
  • Ongoing pain affecting grip strength and daily activities
  • Repeated ineffective treatments aimed at the wrong structure

Early imaging helps guide precise and appropriate 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 patients experience long waiting times when referred to external imaging centres.

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 elbow pain with nerve symptoms?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Numbness or tingling persists
  • Symptoms worsen or spread
  • Elbow pain affects grip strength or daily function

MRI helps move care from uncertainty 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.

Ask Dr Tan A Question About Your Problem