Recurrent Shoulder Dislocation or Instability: When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is meant by shoulder instability or recurrent dislocation?

Shoulder instability refers to a condition where the shoulder joint feels loose, slips, or repeatedly dislocates. Some patients experience:

  • Full dislocation requiring medical reduction
  • Partial dislocation (subluxation)
  • A persistent feeling that the shoulder may “give way” during movement

These episodes may occur during sports, daily activities, or even simple arm movements.

Why does the shoulder become unstable?

The shoulder is a highly mobile joint and relies on soft tissues for stability. Instability may result from:

  • Injury to the labrum (the cartilage rim of the joint)
  • Damage to supporting ligaments
  • Repeated traumatic dislocations
  • Inadequate healing after an initial injury

Once these structures are compromised, the shoulder may remain unstable without targeted treatment.

Why is MRI important for recurrent shoulder instability?

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 shoulder instability or recurrent dislocation is present.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI helps identify:

  • Labral tears
  • Ligament injuries
  • Associated cartilage or bone involvement
  • Patterns of damage contributing to repeated instability

This information is essential for appropriate management planning.

Why is physical examination alone insufficient?

Clinical tests may suggest instability but cannot:

  • Confirm the presence or extent of labral damage
  • Identify internal joint injuries
  • Determine why instability persists despite rehabilitation

Imaging is necessary to move beyond assumptions.

What happens if instability is treated without MRI?

Without imaging:

  • Rehabilitation may be incomplete or misdirected
  • Recurrent dislocations may continue
  • Joint damage may worsen over time

Accurate imaging helps reduce repeated injury and long-term joint problems.

Is MRI costly or difficult to arrange?

Addressing Patient Objections

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

These factors often delay appropriate assessment.

Why arrange your shoulder 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 include:

  • MRI machine on-site
  • Doctor assessment with immediate MRI arrangement
  • No need to:
    • Visit a separate imaging centre
    • Find another doctor just to obtain 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 objectives:

  • Under $1000
  • Arranged within 1 working day

Can insurance or Medisave be used for shoulder MRI?

Insurance & Cost Information

MRI scans 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 shoulder instability?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Shoulder dislocations recur
  • There is ongoing fear of movement due to instability
  • Symptoms persist despite rehabilitation

MRI clarifies the underlying cause and supports more precise decision-making.

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

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