Shoulder Pain with Clicking, Catching, or Locking: When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does clicking, catching, or locking in the shoulder mean?

Clicking, catching, or locking sensations in the shoulder may feel like:

  • A mechanical click during movement
  • A catching sensation when lifting or rotating the arm
  • Temporary locking where movement feels restricted or stuck

Occasional painless clicking can be normal. However, persistent or painful mechanical symptoms often indicate internal joint pathology.

What conditions can cause these mechanical symptoms?

Common underlying causes include:

  • Labral tears
  • Cartilage damage within the shoulder joint
  • Loose bodies inside the joint
  • Tendon abnormalities affecting joint movement
  • Subtle instability causing abnormal joint mechanics

These problems are typically not visible on X-rays.

Why should mechanical shoulder symptoms not be ignored?

Mechanical symptoms suggest:

  • Structural disruption within the joint
  • Abnormal movement of joint surfaces
  • Ongoing irritation that may worsen over time

Ignoring these signs may lead to progressive joint dysfunction and persistent pain.

Why is MRI important in this scenario?

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 clicking, catching, or locking is persistent or painful.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI allows assessment of cartilage, labrum, tendons, and internal joint structures responsible for mechanical symptoms.

Why is physical examination alone insufficient?

Clinical tests may reproduce symptoms but cannot:

  • Identify the exact internal cause
  • Detect subtle cartilage or labral damage
  • Confirm the presence of loose bodies

Imaging is required to establish a clear diagnosis.

What happens if treatment proceeds without MRI?

Without imaging:

  • Symptoms may be treated as inflammation alone
  • Exercises may worsen mechanical problems
  • Injections may provide only temporary relief

This often results in ongoing discomfort and repeated failed treatments.

Is MRI costly or difficult to arrange?

Addressing Patient Objections

  • Cost concerns: MRI costs may be reduced through Medisave and insurance coverage.
  • Delays elsewhere: External imaging centres often involve long waiting times and additional referrals.

These barriers frequently delay appropriate investigation.

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 direct, immediate MRI arrangement
  • 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 objectives:

  • Under $1000
  • Arranged within 1 working day

Can insurance or Medisave help cover MRI costs?

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 clicking or locking?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Clicking or catching is painful or persistent
  • Shoulder movement feels mechanically restricted
  • Symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment

MRI helps clarify the cause and supports targeted, effective care.

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

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