Suspected Tendon Injury (Peroneal, Achilles, or Posterior Tibial Tendon): When an MRI Scan Is Necessary

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are ankle tendon injuries?

Ankle tendon injuries involve damage to the tendons that stabilise and move the ankle and foot. Commonly affected tendons include:

  • Peroneal tendons (outer ankle, important for stability)
  • Achilles tendon (back of the ankle, critical for walking and running)
  • Posterior tibial tendon (inner ankle, supports the arch)

These injuries may range from inflammation to partial or complete tears.

What symptoms suggest a tendon injury rather than a simple strain?

Symptoms that raise concern include:

  • Persistent pain despite rest or physiotherapy
  • Swelling along the tendon course
  • Pain with walking, climbing stairs, or push-off
  • Weakness or loss of endurance
  • Pain that worsens with activity rather than improving

These symptoms often persist without clear improvement.

Why are tendon injuries commonly missed initially?

Early tendon injuries may resemble minor strains. X-rays do not show tendons, and physical examination alone cannot reliably determine:

  • The extent of tendon damage
  • Whether a tear is present
  • Whether multiple tendons are involved

As a result, treatment may be delayed or ineffective.

Why is MRI important when an ankle tendon 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 an ankle tendon injury is suspected.
  • MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

MRI helps assess:

  • Tendon integrity and thickness
  • Partial versus complete tears
  • Surrounding inflammation or degeneration
  • Associated ligament or joint pathology

Why is clinical examination alone insufficient?

While examination can localise pain, it cannot:

  • Confirm internal tendon tears
  • Identify degeneration or subtle partial injuries
  • Determine why symptoms persist despite treatment

Imaging provides the clarity needed for accurate diagnosis.

What happens if tendon injuries are not properly diagnosed?

Without accurate diagnosis:

  • Pain may become chronic
  • Tendon damage may progress
  • Function and mobility may decline
  • Recovery may take longer than necessary

MRI helps prevent prolonged or worsening tendon problems.

Is MRI expensive or difficult to arrange?

Addressing Patient Objections

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

These issues often delay appropriate investigation.

Why arrange your ankle 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 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 aims:

  • Under $1000
  • Arranged within 1 working day

Can insurance or Medisave help cover ankle 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 suspected ankle tendon injury?

MRI should be considered if:

  • Ankle or heel pain persists despite treatment
  • Walking or push-off remains painful
  • Swelling or weakness continues

MRI helps move care from assumption-based treatment to targeted, evidence-based 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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