Humerus MRI in Singapore: Price, Uses and Scanner Options

Humerus MRI price: S$1,000

A humerus MRI available through The Pain Relief Clinic in Singapore currently costs S$1,000.

The S$1,000 price includes:

• The humerus MRI scan
• Images from the examination
• A radiologist’s report

MRI scanner options available

Depending on the clinical requirements and imaging-centre availability, The Pain Relief Clinic can help arrange:

• 1.5 Tesla MRI
• 3 Tesla MRI
• Wide-bore MRI for patients who are claustrophobic or uncomfortable in conventional MRI scanners

The most appropriate scanner and protocol depend on the clinical question, implants, body size, ability to remain still and type of images required. A 3 Tesla MRI is not automatically necessary or better for every humerus condition.

Current price: S$1,000
Price last reviewed: 9 August 2026
MRI strength options: 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla, depending on clinical requirements
Claustrophobia option: Wide-bore MRI available, subject to suitability and availability
Appointment availability: Often within one working day, subject to availability and MRI safety clearance
MediSave: Up to S$600 may be available for eligible outpatient scans, subject to prevailing conditions
Insurance: Coverage depends on the patient’s policy, medical indication and insurer approval

Additional charges may apply if contrast, specialised imaging sequences or a different MRI protocol is medically required. The final scanner, protocol and price will be confirmed before proceeding.

When medically indicated, The Pain Relief Clinic can often help arrange a humerus MRI within one working day, subject to imaging-centre availability and scheduling.

What is a humerus MRI?

A humerus MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to examine the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow.

The humerus is the long bone of the upper arm. It extends from the shoulder joint to the elbow joint.

MRI does not use X-rays or ionising radiation. It uses a strong magnetic field, radiofrequency signals and computer processing to produce detailed images.

Depending on the prescribed protocol, a humerus MRI may assess:

• Humerus bone
• Bone marrow
• Muscles of the upper arm
• Tendons
• Fascia and connective tissues
• Nerves and surrounding tissues
• Areas of inflammation or fluid
• Soft-tissue lumps or masses
• Structural abnormalities following injury

A humerus MRI does not necessarily provide a complete assessment of the shoulder or elbow joint. A separate shoulder or elbow MRI may be required when symptoms are concentrated around one of those joints.

When might a doctor consider a humerus MRI?

A doctor may consider humerus MRI when upper-arm symptoms are persistent, unexplained or associated with a suspected structural abnormality.

Possible situations include:

• Persistent upper-arm pain that has not improved as expected
• Pain following a direct impact or injury
• Suspected bone stress injury
• Persistent pain despite a normal or inconclusive X-ray
• Suspected muscle injury
• Suspected tendon or muscle-tendon junction injury
• Unexplained swelling
• A soft-tissue lump requiring further characterisation
• Localised bone pain
• Concern about bone-marrow abnormalities
• Suspected inflammation or infection
• Symptoms following previous surgery
• An abnormality identified on another investigation
• A relevant history of cancer with new localised bone pain
• Planning treatment when MRI findings could affect the decision

Having one of these features does not automatically mean that MRI is required or that a serious condition is present.

A doctor should determine whether the symptoms originate from the humerus, shoulder, elbow, cervical spine, brachial plexus or another area.

Persistent upper-arm pain

Upper-arm pain can arise from several different structures and may be related to:

• Muscle strain
• Muscle overuse
• Direct trauma
• Bone bruising
• Bone stress injury
• Tendon injury
• Referred pain from the shoulder
• Referred pain from the cervical spine
• Nerve-related symptoms
• Inflammation
• Infection
• A soft-tissue or bone abnormality

A humerus MRI may be considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate treatment, the diagnosis remains uncertain or imaging could change management.

Pain near the shoulder or elbow may require a dedicated joint MRI rather than a humerus MRI.

Upper-arm pain after sport or exercise

Upper-arm injuries may occur during:

• Weight training
• Throwing sports
• Racquet sports
• Contact sports
• Gymnastics
• Swimming
• Climbing
• Repetitive lifting
• Sudden pulling movements

Possible causes include:

• Muscle strain
• Muscle-tendon junction injury
• Repetitive overloading
• Bone stress injury
• Direct impact
• Tendon injury
• A shoulder condition referring pain into the upper arm

MRI is not automatically required for every exercise-related injury. Many uncomplicated muscle injuries can initially be assessed and managed without advanced imaging.

MRI may be considered when pain is severe or persistent, weakness continues, the injury is not recovering as expected or a more significant structural abnormality is suspected.

Upper-arm pain affecting daily life

Persistent humerus or upper-arm symptoms can interfere with:

• Reaching
• Lifting
• Carrying bags
• Dressing
• Washing or grooming
• Driving
• Typing
• Manual work
• Exercise
• Sport
• Household tasks
• Sleeping on the affected side
• Caring for children or older family members

Some people seek further assessment because pain or weakness is reducing their work performance or preventing them from returning to exercise. Others worry that continuing difficulty using the arm will affect their independence or increase their reliance on family members.

Identifying the likely source can help determine whether the next step should involve rehabilitation, activity modification, treatment, observation or imaging.

What can a humerus MRI show?

Depending on the scan protocol and clinical question, humerus MRI may help assess the following.

Bone and bone-marrow abnormalities

MRI can show changes within the humerus and bone marrow that may not be visible on an early X-ray.

These may include:

• Bone bruising
• Stress reaction
• Some stress fractures
• Inflammation
• Infection
• Bone-marrow abnormalities
• Other structural findings requiring further assessment

Muscle injuries

MRI may provide detailed images of the muscles in the upper arm.

Possible findings may include:

• Muscle strain
• Partial tearing
• More significant muscle injury
• Muscle swelling
• Fluid collections
• Changes following previous injury

The MRI findings should be interpreted with the physical examination and assessment of arm strength and function.

Tendon and muscle-tendon junction injuries

A humerus MRI may show structural changes involving tendons or the areas where muscles transition into tendons.

However, a dedicated shoulder or elbow MRI may be more appropriate when the suspected tendon injury is close to one of those joints.

Soft-tissue lumps

A humerus MRI may be considered when there is an unexplained lump or area of swelling in the upper arm.

The scan may provide information about:

• The location of the abnormality
• Its size and extent
• Its relationship to nearby muscles, nerves and blood vessels
• Whether it appears solid or fluid-filled
• Whether further investigation is required

MRI cannot always determine the exact nature of a lump. Additional imaging, specialist referral or tissue testing may sometimes be required.

Inflammation or infection

MRI may show patterns of inflammation, tissue swelling, fluid or bone-marrow changes that can occur with infection.

Severe pain accompanied by fever, spreading redness, warmth or systemic illness requires prompt medical assessment.

Humerus MRI versus shoulder MRI

A humerus MRI and shoulder MRI examine different anatomical areas.

Humerus MRI

A humerus MRI primarily assesses:

• Upper-arm bone
• Bone marrow
• Upper-arm muscles
• Soft tissues between the shoulder and elbow
• Lumps or abnormalities within the upper arm

Shoulder MRI

A shoulder MRI primarily assesses:

• Rotator-cuff tendons
• Shoulder joint
• Labrum
• Biceps tendon near the shoulder
• Cartilage
• Structures surrounding the shoulder

If the pain is concentrated around the shoulder or worsens mainly with shoulder movement, a shoulder MRI may be more appropriate.

Humerus MRI versus elbow MRI

A humerus MRI does not necessarily provide a complete examination of the elbow joint.

An elbow MRI may be more appropriate when symptoms involve:

• Elbow joint
• Distal biceps tendon
• Triceps tendon near the elbow
• Elbow ligaments
• Cartilage
• Nerves around the elbow

One MRI examination may not fully assess both the humerus and an adjacent joint. The correct body region should be confirmed before proceeding.

Upper-arm pain with numbness or tingling

Numbness, tingling or weakness in the upper arm may originate from:

• A nerve within the upper arm
• Cervical spine nerve roots
• Brachial plexus
• Shoulder region
• Elbow region
• Another neurological condition

A humerus MRI does not automatically assess the cervical spine or entire brachial plexus.

Depending on the symptoms, a doctor may consider:

• Humerus MRI
• Cervical spine MRI
• Brachial plexus MRI
• Shoulder MRI
• Elbow MRI
• Nerve-conduction studies
• Electromyography
• Another investigation

When might MRI not be the first investigation?

MRI is not always the first or most appropriate investigation for upper-arm symptoms.

Clinical assessment without immediate imaging

Some uncomplicated muscle or overuse conditions can initially be assessed and managed without MRI.

Immediate imaging may not be required when:

• There has been no significant trauma
• There are no concerning warning signs
• Symptoms are recent
• Progressive weakness is absent
• Imaging is unlikely to change initial treatment

X-ray

X-ray may be used initially to assess:

• Suspected fracture
• Bone alignment
• Certain bone abnormalities
• Significant trauma

An early X-ray may not show every bone stress injury or bone-marrow abnormality.

Ultrasound

Ultrasound may be useful for assessing:

• Superficial muscles and tendons
• Some tendon tears
• Fluid collections
• Certain soft-tissue lumps
• Structures during movement

CT

CT provides detailed images of bone and may be preferred for:

• Complex fractures
• Detailed assessment of bony anatomy
• Situations where MRI is unsuitable

The appropriate investigation depends on the suspected condition and whether the result is likely to change treatment.

When are upper-arm symptoms an emergency?

An outpatient humerus MRI appointment is not the appropriate first step when symptoms suggest a serious or urgent condition.

Seek urgent medical care if:

• The upper arm is visibly deformed
• A bone is visible through the skin
• There is a deep or open wound
• Severe pain follows major trauma
• The hand becomes cold, pale or blue
• There is new loss of feeling in the arm or hand
• You cannot move the arm or fingers after an injury
• Swelling or tightness is increasing rapidly
• Pain is severe and out of proportion to the apparent injury
• A hot, swollen arm occurs with fever or systemic illness
• There is sudden major weakness affecting the arm
• Arm pain occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating or nausea
• Arm weakness occurs with facial drooping or difficulty speaking

Call 995 for possible stroke, heart-related symptoms or another potentially life-threatening emergency.

Do not delay urgent assessment while waiting for a routine MRI.

Is the humerus MRI performed on a 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla machine?

Both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla MRI machines are available, depending on the clinical situation and imaging-centre availability.

Tesla, abbreviated as “T”, describes the strength of the MRI machine’s magnetic field.

1.5 Tesla MRI

A 1.5 Tesla MRI is widely used for musculoskeletal imaging and can produce clinically useful images for many humerus and upper-arm conditions.

It may be suitable for assessing:

• Bone and bone marrow
• Muscles
• Tendons
• Soft-tissue abnormalities
• Stress injuries
• Areas of inflammation

3 Tesla MRI

A 3 Tesla MRI uses a stronger magnetic field and may provide a higher signal or allow more detailed imaging for selected clinical questions.

It may be considered when:

• Greater anatomical detail is clinically useful
• A small or complex abnormality requires focused assessment
• A specialised protocol is requested
• The referring doctor or radiologist considers it appropriate

A 3 Tesla MRI is not automatically better for every condition. A 1.5 Tesla MRI may provide the necessary diagnostic information and may be more suitable in some circumstances.

The scanner should be selected according to the clinical question rather than magnetic-field strength alone.

Is a wide-bore MRI available for claustrophobic patients?

Yes. Wide-bore MRI machines are available for patients who are claustrophobic or uncomfortable in conventional MRI scanners, subject to suitability and appointment availability.

A wide-bore MRI has a larger internal opening than many traditional MRI machines. The additional space may help patients who:

• Feel anxious in enclosed spaces
• Have previously been unable to complete an MRI
• Are concerned about claustrophobia
• Have a larger body size
• Find conventional scanners uncomfortable
• Prefer a more spacious scanning environment

A wide-bore MRI is not the same as a completely open MRI. The patient will still be positioned inside the scanner, but the opening is wider and may feel less restrictive.

Patients concerned about claustrophobia should inform The Pain Relief Clinic before the appointment so that a suitable imaging centre and scanner can be considered.

For severe claustrophobia, additional preparation or medication may still be required.

What are the potential benefits of humerus MRI?

When medically appropriate, humerus MRI offers several potential benefits:

• It provides detailed images of the humerus and surrounding soft tissues
• It can assess bone marrow
• It may identify certain injuries not visible on an early X-ray
• It can assess muscles and muscle-tendon junctions
• It may help characterise a soft-tissue lump
• It may clarify persistent or unexplained symptoms
• It may assist with treatment or rehabilitation planning
• It does not use ionising radiation
• It is non-invasive
• Both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla options are available
• Wide-bore MRI is available for selected claustrophobic patients
• The examination includes MRI images
• A radiologist’s report is provided

MRI also has limitations:

• Not every abnormality seen on MRI causes symptoms
• MRI findings must be interpreted with the physical examination
• The scan does not directly measure muscle or nerve function
• A separate shoulder or elbow MRI may be required
• Some conditions are better assessed with X-ray, ultrasound or CT
• MRI may not be needed if the result will not change treatment

Is humerus MRI safe?

MRI does not use ionising radiation and is generally considered safe when the required safety checks are completed.

Before the scan, tell the clinic and imaging centre if you have:

• A pacemaker or implanted defibrillator
• A cochlear implant
• Aneurysm clips
• A neurostimulator
• An implanted medication pump
• Metal fragments in the eye or body
• Previous surgery involving metallic implants
• Kidney disease
• A previous reaction to MRI contrast
• Pregnancy or possible pregnancy
• Severe claustrophobia
• Difficulty remaining still
• Any implanted or attached medical device

Some implants can be scanned only under specific conditions. The imaging provider must verify the exact device information before the MRI.

Is contrast required for a humerus MRI?

Most routine humerus MRI examinations can be performed without contrast.

Contrast may be considered for particular clinical questions, including selected cases involving:

• A suspected mass
• Infection
• Inflammatory disease
• Previous upper-arm surgery
• A bone-marrow abnormality
• An abnormality requiring further characterisation

If contrast is recommended, the reason, relevant safety considerations and any additional charges will be explained before the scan.

What happens during a humerus MRI?

Before the examination, you will complete an MRI safety questionnaire and remove items that may contain metal.

During the scan:

1. You will lie on the MRI examination table.
2. The upper arm will be positioned within the appropriate imaging equipment.
3. The table will move into the scanner.
4. You will hear loud knocking, tapping or humming sounds.
5. Hearing protection will be provided.
6. You will need to keep the arm still while the images are acquired.
7. The radiographer will be able to communicate with you throughout the examination.

The duration depends on the prescribed MRI protocol and whether additional sequences or contrast are required.

After the examination, a radiologist will review the images and prepare a report.

Current humerus MRI price in Singapore

Humerus MRI: S$1,000

The S$1,000 price includes:

• The humerus MRI scan
• Images from the examination
• A radiologist’s report
• Access to a 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla MRI machine, depending on clinical requirements and availability
• A wide-bore MRI option when appropriate and available

Price last reviewed: 9 August 2026

Additional charges may apply if:

• Contrast is medically required
• Specialised imaging sequences are required
• A different MRI protocol is needed
• A separate shoulder or elbow MRI is required
• Additional imaging is requested or recommended

The final scanner, scan coverage, protocol and price will be confirmed before proceeding.

Can MediSave be used for a humerus MRI?

From 1 January 2026, the MediSave annual withdrawal limit for eligible outpatient scans increased to up to S$600 per patient per year.

Eligibility is not automatic. It depends on:

• Whether the MRI is used to diagnose or treat a medical condition
• The prevailing MediSave rules
• Whether the scan is performed through an eligible participating medical institution
• The patient’s remaining annual withdrawal limit
• Whether the applicable medical and administrative requirements are satisfied

Patients may be able to use their own MediSave or an eligible immediate family member’s MediSave, subject to prevailing rules.

The S$600 figure is a maximum annual withdrawal limit for eligible outpatient scans. It does not guarantee that S$600 will be approved or available for every humerus MRI.

Please confirm eligibility before proceeding.

Can insurance cover a humerus MRI?

Private insurance may cover a medically indicated humerus MRI, but coverage depends on the individual policy.

Possible requirements may include:

• Documented medical necessity
• An appropriate medical referral
• Insurer pre-authorisation
• Use of an approved panel imaging centre
• A deductible or co-payment
• Limits on outpatient diagnostic benefits
• Submission of supporting medical information
• Submission of the invoice and radiologist’s report

The insurer makes the final decision about approval and reimbursement.

Patients who intend to claim through insurance should confirm their coverage and any pre-authorisation requirements before undergoing the MRI.

How quickly can a humerus MRI be arranged?

When MRI is medically appropriate, The Pain Relief Clinic can often help arrange a humerus MRI within one working day.

This is subject to:

• Imaging-centre availability
• Availability of the appropriate 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla scanner
• Availability of a wide-bore scanner if requested
• The required MRI protocol
• MRI safety clearance
• Whether contrast is required
• Insurance or MediSave administrative requirements
• The patient’s availability

A one-working-day appointment cannot be guaranteed in every case.

Frequently asked questions

What area does a humerus MRI examine?

A humerus MRI examines the upper arm between the shoulder and elbow, including the humerus bone, bone marrow, muscles and surrounding soft tissues.

Is a humerus MRI the same as a shoulder MRI?

No. A humerus MRI focuses on the upper arm. A shoulder MRI focuses on the shoulder joint, rotator-cuff tendons, labrum and other structures around the shoulder.

Is a humerus MRI the same as an elbow MRI?

No. An elbow MRI focuses on the elbow joint and immediately surrounding tendons, ligaments, cartilage and nerves.

Can humerus MRI show a fracture?

MRI may show certain fractures, bone bruises and stress injuries that are not visible on an early X-ray. X-ray is usually the first investigation following acute trauma.

Can humerus MRI show a muscle tear?

MRI may show structural changes involving upper-arm muscles and muscle-tendon junctions.

Can humerus MRI assess an upper-arm lump?

MRI may help determine the location, size and relationship of a lump to surrounding structures. Further investigation may still be required.

Is the scan performed on a 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla machine?

Both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla MRI machines are available. The most appropriate scanner depends on the clinical question, protocol and appointment availability.

Is a 3 Tesla MRI always better?

No. A 3 Tesla MRI may offer advantages for selected clinical questions, but a 1.5 Tesla examination can provide appropriate diagnostic images for many upper-arm conditions.

Is a wide-bore MRI available for claustrophobic patients?

Yes. Wide-bore MRI machines are available, subject to clinical suitability and appointment availability.

Does humerus MRI use radiation?

No. MRI does not use ionising radiation.

Is contrast always required?

No. Most routine humerus MRI examinations can be performed without contrast. Contrast may be recommended for selected clinical questions.

How much does a humerus MRI cost?

A humerus MRI available through The Pain Relief Clinic costs S$1,000.

The price includes:

• The humerus MRI scan
• Images from the examination
• A radiologist’s report

Both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla MRI machines are available depending on the clinical requirements. Wide-bore MRI is also available for selected claustrophobic patients, subject to suitability and appointment availability.

Additional charges may apply if contrast, specialised imaging sequences or a different MRI protocol is medically required.

Can I use up to S$600 of MediSave?

Up to S$600 per patient per year may be withdrawn for eligible outpatient scans from 1 January 2026. Eligibility depends on prevailing rules, the participating medical institution, the remaining annual limit and the circumstances of the claim.

Will insurance cover the humerus MRI?

It depends on the patient’s policy and clinical circumstances. Medical necessity, pre-authorisation, panel restrictions, deductibles or co-payments may apply.

Will I receive the MRI images and report?

Yes. The S$1,000 price includes the images from the examination and a radiologist’s report.

Can the MRI be arranged within one working day?

The Pain Relief Clinic can often help arrange a medically indicated humerus MRI within one working day, subject to MRI safety clearance, imaging-centre availability and availability of the appropriate scanner.

Arrange a humerus MRI

If persistent upper-arm pain, swelling or weakness is interfering with your work, exercise or daily activities, The Pain Relief Clinic can assess whether further investigation may be appropriate.

When medically indicated, the clinic can help arrange an affordably priced humerus MRI, often within one working day.

Humerus MRI: S$1,000

The price includes:

• The humerus MRI scan
• Images from the examination
• A radiologist’s report

Depending on clinical requirements and availability, the scan may be arranged using:

• A 1.5 Tesla MRI machine
• A 3 Tesla MRI machine
• A wide-bore MRI machine for patients concerned about claustrophobia

Important medical information

This page provides general educational and pricing information. It does not replace an individual medical assessment.

MRI is not required for every episode of upper-arm pain or every humerus injury. The most appropriate scan area, scanner and protocol depend on the clinical question and individual circumstances.

Prices, availability, scanner type, MediSave eligibility and insurance coverage should be confirmed before proceeding.

Seek urgent medical care for severe trauma, visible deformity, an open injury, rapidly increasing swelling, loss of circulation or sensation, a hot swollen arm with fever, or sudden arm weakness associated with facial drooping, speech difficulty or chest pain.