Suspected Ligament Injury of the Elbow: When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the main ligaments of the elbow?

The elbow is stabilised by several key ligaments, including:

  • Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the inner (medial) side
  • Radial collateral ligament (RCL) on the outer (lateral) side
  • Lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) contributing to rotational stability

These ligaments maintain elbow stability during lifting, gripping, and throwing activities.

What symptoms suggest a ligament injury in the elbow?

Symptoms may include:

  • Pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow
  • A feeling of looseness or instability
  • Pain during throwing, lifting, or pushing
  • Reduced strength or confidence in elbow movement
  • Pain that persists despite rest and physiotherapy

Ligament injuries may occur acutely or develop gradually with repetitive stress.

Why are elbow ligament injuries commonly missed initially?

Ligament injuries are often missed because:

  • X-rays do not show ligament damage
  • Swelling may be minimal
  • Symptoms can mimic tendon-related pain

Without imaging, instability-related problems may remain undiagnosed.

Why is MRI important when an elbow ligament injury is suspected?

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 ligament injury is suspected.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI allows assessment of:

  • Ligament integrity and thickness
  • Partial versus complete tears
  • Associated cartilage or bone injury
  • Joint inflammation or instability patterns

Why are examination and X-rays insufficient?

Clinical tests can suggest instability but cannot:

  • Confirm ligament tearing
  • Define severity or extent of injury
  • Identify associated internal damage

X-rays assess bones but not ligaments.

What happens if elbow ligament injuries are not accurately diagnosed?

Without accurate diagnosis:

  • Instability may persist or worsen
  • Pain may become chronic
  • Function may deteriorate during sports or work activities

MRI supports appropriate management and informed decision-making.

Is MRI expensive or difficult to arrange?

Addressing Patient Objections

  • Cost concerns: MRI costs may be partially offset by Medisave or insurance.
  • Delays elsewhere: External imaging centres often involve referral steps and long waiting times.

These delays can prolong symptoms and uncertainty.

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 suspected elbow ligament injury?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Elbow pain persists despite treatment
  • Instability or weakness is present
  • Pain occurs during throwing, lifting, or gripping

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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