Suspected Rotator Cuff Tear After Injury or Fall: When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the rotator cuff and why is it important?

The rotator cuff is a group of tendons and muscles that stabilise the shoulder joint and allow controlled arm movement. It plays a critical role in lifting, rotating, and positioning the arm.

Damage to the rotator cuff can significantly affect shoulder strength and function.

How can a fall or injury cause a rotator cuff tear?

A rotator cuff tear may occur due to:

  • Falling onto the shoulder or outstretched arm
  • Sudden pulling or jerking movements
  • Lifting heavy objects abruptly
  • Sports injuries involving impact or overhead motion

In middle-aged and older adults, even a relatively minor fall can result in a tear if the tendon has pre-existing degeneration.

What symptoms suggest a possible rotator cuff tear?

Common features include:

  • Shoulder pain following an injury or fall
  • Weakness when lifting or rotating the arm
  • Difficulty raising the arm overhead
  • Pain that worsens with activity or at night
  • Limited shoulder function compared to before the injury

These symptoms may persist despite rest or initial treatment.

Why is MRI important after a suspected rotator cuff injury?

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 a rotator cuff tear is suspected after injury.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI can determine:

  • Whether a tear is present
  • The size and extent of the tear
  • Which tendon is involved
  • Whether the tear is partial or full thickness

This information is essential for appropriate treatment planning.

Why is clinical examination alone not enough?

While physical examination can raise suspicion, it cannot:

  • Reliably distinguish partial from full-thickness tears
  • Assess tendon retraction or muscle quality
  • Identify associated injuries within the shoulder joint

Relying on examination alone often leads to uncertainty and delayed recovery.

Is MRI costly or difficult to arrange after an injury?

Addressing Patient Objections

  • Cost concerns: MRI costs may be partially offset by insurance or Medisave.
  • Access delays: Many patients experience long waits when referred to external imaging centres.

These issues commonly delay imaging even when it is clinically indicated.

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 benefits include:

  • MRI machine on-site
  • Doctor assessment and immediate MRI arrangement
  • No need to:
    • Visit a separate imaging centre
    • Find another doctor solely 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 be used for MRI after a shoulder injury?

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 individual eligibility.

What should I do if I suspect a rotator cuff tear?

If shoulder pain or weakness develops after a fall or injury and does not improve promptly, MRI helps confirm the diagnosis and supports timely, appropriate management.

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

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