Brachial Plexus MRI in Singapore: Price, Uses and Safety

Brachial plexus MRI price: S$1,030

A brachial plexus MRI available through The Pain Relief Clinic in Singapore currently costs S$1,030.

The S$1,030 price includes:

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

Current price: S$1,030
Price last reviewed: 9 August 2026
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 scan protocol and price will be confirmed before proceeding.

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

What is the brachial plexus?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that begins near the neck and travels through the shoulder region into the arm.

These nerves help control:

• Shoulder movement
• Elbow movement
• Wrist and hand movement
• Muscle strength in the arm and hand
• Sensation in parts of the shoulder, arm and hand

An injury, compression or other abnormality affecting the brachial plexus may cause pain, weakness, numbness, tingling or loss of function in the shoulder, arm or hand.

What is a brachial plexus MRI?

A brachial plexus MRI uses magnetic resonance imaging to produce detailed images of the nerve network and surrounding structures between the neck, upper chest, shoulder and underarm region.

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

Depending on the prescribed protocol, a brachial plexus MRI may assess:

• Nerve roots and branches forming the brachial plexus
• Surrounding muscles
• Soft tissues around the nerves
• Areas of nerve enlargement or altered signal
• Possible nerve compression
• Traumatic injury
• Inflammation
• Masses or other structural abnormalities
• Postoperative changes
• Adjacent structures that may affect the nerves

Not every episode of arm pain, numbness or weakness requires a brachial plexus MRI. The appropriate investigation depends on the symptoms, examination findings, suspected location of the problem and whether the MRI result is likely to influence treatment.

When might a doctor consider a brachial plexus MRI?

A doctor may consider brachial plexus MRI when symptoms or examination findings suggest that a problem may involve the nerve network between the neck and arm.

Possible situations include:

• Persistent arm pain with no clear explanation
• Unexplained weakness in the shoulder, arm or hand
• Persistent numbness or tingling affecting the arm
• Loss of shoulder or arm function after an injury
• Symptoms following traction or stretching of the neck and shoulder
• Symptoms after a shoulder dislocation
• Suspected traumatic brachial plexus injury
• Persistent symptoms following an impact to the neck, shoulder or upper chest
• Suspected nerve compression
• Concern about nerve inflammation
• A soft-tissue mass near the brachial plexus
• Symptoms developing after surgery or radiotherapy
• Unexplained muscle wasting in the shoulder or arm
• Abnormal findings on nerve-conduction studies or electromyography
• Planning treatment when the MRI findings could affect the decision
• Distinguishing a possible brachial plexus problem from another cause of arm symptoms

Having one of these symptoms does not automatically mean that a brachial plexus MRI is required. A doctor should assess the pattern of symptoms and determine whether the suspected problem is located in the brachial plexus, cervical spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist or another area.

Symptoms that may be associated with the brachial plexus

The symptoms of a brachial plexus problem vary according to which nerves are affected and the severity of the condition.

Possible symptoms include:

• Burning, shooting or electric-like pain
• Pain travelling from the neck or shoulder into the arm
• Numbness or tingling
• Reduced sensation
• Shoulder weakness
• Difficulty bending or straightening the elbow
• Reduced grip strength
• Difficulty moving the wrist or fingers
• Loss of fine hand control
• Muscle wasting
• A heavy or weak feeling in the arm
• Difficulty lifting or carrying objects
• Symptoms that developed after trauma, surgery or radiotherapy

These symptoms can also arise from conditions involving the cervical spine, shoulder, peripheral nerves, brain or other structures. A medical assessment is needed to determine the likely source.

Brachial plexus injury after trauma

Traumatic brachial plexus injuries can occur when the shoulder and neck are forcefully pulled apart or when the nerves experience significant stretching, compression or direct injury.

Possible causes include:

• Road-traffic accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Falls
• Contact sports
• Shoulder dislocation
• Penetrating injuries
• Significant traction injuries
• Direct trauma to the neck, upper chest or shoulder

The severity can range from temporary nerve irritation to more significant nerve disruption.

A brachial plexus MRI may help assess the location and structural features of the injury. Other investigations may also be required, including:

• Cervical spine imaging
• Shoulder imaging
• Nerve-conduction studies
• Electromyography
• CT or CT myelography in selected cases
• Specialist neurological or surgical assessment

Timing can be important following a significant nerve injury. New or severe weakness after trauma should be assessed promptly rather than waiting for a routine MRI appointment.

Persistent arm pain, numbness or weakness

Symptoms affecting the arm or hand can arise from several different locations.

Possible sources include:

• Cervical spine nerve roots
• Brachial plexus
• Shoulder structures
• Peripheral nerves around the elbow or wrist
• Muscles and tendons
• Blood vessels
• The brain or spinal cord
• Other medical conditions

A brachial plexus MRI is most useful when the clinical assessment suggests that the nerve network between the neck and arm may be involved.

If symptoms appear more likely to originate from the cervical spine, a cervical spine MRI may be more appropriate. If the symptoms are localised to a shoulder tendon or joint structure, shoulder imaging may be considered instead.

Selecting the correct body region and MRI protocol is important because one scan does not automatically assess every potential cause of arm symptoms.

Symptoms affecting work and daily function

Brachial plexus symptoms may interfere with:

• Typing
• Writing
• Using a computer mouse
• Reaching overhead
• Lifting and carrying
• Driving
• Dressing
• Washing or grooming
• Cooking
• Exercise
• Sport
• Sleeping comfortably
• Caring for children or older family members
• Performing physically demanding work

Persistent weakness or loss of hand control can be particularly concerning for people whose work depends on fine motor skills, strength or accurate hand movements.

Some people seek assessment because they are worried that progressive symptoms may affect their independence or increase their reliance on family members.

Identifying the likely source of the symptoms can help determine whether the next step should involve rehabilitation, medical treatment, further investigation or specialist referral.

What can a brachial plexus MRI show?

Depending on the MRI protocol and clinical question, the scan may provide information about:

Nerve abnormalities

MRI may show changes in the size, course or signal characteristics of parts of the brachial plexus.

These findings may be associated with:

• Traumatic injury
• Inflammation
• Compression
• Scarring
• Other nerve abnormalities

MRI findings should be interpreted with the symptoms, physical examination and, where relevant, nerve-conduction or electromyography results.

Surrounding soft tissues

The scan may show muscles, connective tissues and other structures surrounding the brachial plexus.

This can help identify whether an adjacent abnormality may be affecting the nerves.

Masses or structural compression

MRI may be considered when there is concern about a mass or another structural abnormality near the brachial plexus.

The scan may help determine:

• The location of the abnormality
• Its size and extent
• Its relationship to the nerves
• Whether nearby structures are affected
• Whether further investigation is required

MRI cannot always determine the exact nature of an abnormality. Further imaging, referral or tissue testing may sometimes be necessary.

Muscle changes

When a nerve is not functioning normally, the muscles supplied by that nerve may develop characteristic changes.

MRI may show changes in certain muscles, but these findings must be correlated with the clinical assessment.

Postoperative or post-treatment changes

MRI may be used in selected cases to assess persistent or new symptoms following surgery, radiotherapy or another treatment.

Contrast may be more likely to be considered in some post-treatment situations.

When might another investigation be more appropriate?

A brachial plexus MRI is not always the first or only investigation needed.

Depending on the symptoms, a doctor may consider:

Cervical spine MRI

A cervical spine MRI may be more appropriate when symptoms suggest compression or irritation of a nerve root in the neck.

Possible features include:

• Neck pain
• Pain radiating from the neck into the arm
• Symptoms that change with neck movement
• Abnormal reflexes
• A pattern suggesting cervical radiculopathy
• Possible spinal cord involvement

Shoulder MRI or ultrasound

Shoulder imaging may be considered when symptoms appear to originate from:

• Rotator cuff tendons
• Shoulder joint
• Labrum
• Biceps tendon
• Other local shoulder structures

Nerve-conduction studies and electromyography

These tests assess how nerves and muscles function. They may help determine:

• Which nerves are affected
• The location of nerve dysfunction
• The severity of the problem
• Whether there are signs of recovery

MRI provides structural information, while these tests provide functional information. They may be complementary.

Ultrasound

Specialised nerve ultrasound may be useful for assessing selected superficial nerves or areas of suspected compression.

CT or CT myelography

CT-based investigations may be considered in selected traumatic injuries or when MRI is unsuitable.

The choice of investigation depends on the suspected location, urgency and clinical question.

When are arm symptoms an emergency?

An outpatient brachial plexus MRI appointment is not the appropriate first step when symptoms suggest a medical emergency.

Call 995 or seek immediate emergency care if there is:

• Sudden facial drooping
• Sudden weakness or numbness affecting one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Sudden severe loss of coordination
• Chest pain spreading to the arm, shoulder, neck or jaw
• Shortness of breath, sweating or nausea with arm discomfort
• A cold, pale or blue arm following an injury
• Sudden loss of the pulse in the arm
• Severe trauma with new paralysis or major weakness
• Suspected neck or spinal injury
• Rapidly worsening weakness affecting both arms or legs
• New loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe neck pain with neurological symptoms
• Difficulty breathing following an injury to the neck or upper chest

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

What are the potential benefits of brachial plexus MRI?

When medically appropriate, brachial plexus MRI offers several potential benefits:

• It provides detailed images of the nerve network and surrounding tissues
• It may help locate a structural abnormality
• It may show possible nerve injury, compression or inflammation
• It may show the relationship between a mass and nearby nerves
• It can provide information for treatment or referral planning
• It does not use ionising radiation
• It is non-invasive
• The examination includes MRI images
• A radiologist’s report is provided

MRI also has limitations:

• Not every nerve problem is visible on MRI
• The scan does not directly measure nerve function
• Findings must be interpreted with the examination
• Nerve-conduction studies or electromyography may also be required
• A different MRI may be needed if the symptoms originate from the cervical spine or shoulder
• Some abnormalities require further testing
• MRI may not be necessary if the result will not change treatment

Is brachial plexus 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 details before the MRI.

Is contrast required?

Not every brachial plexus MRI requires contrast.

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

• A suspected mass
• Infection
• Inflammation
• Previous surgery
• Previous radiotherapy
• An abnormality requiring further characterisation

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

The final MRI protocol will be selected according to the medical indication.

What happens during a brachial plexus 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 neck, shoulder and upper chest region will be positioned for imaging.
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 remain still while the images are acquired.
7. The radiographer will be able to communicate with you throughout the examination.

The scan may cover a broader area than a routine shoulder MRI because the brachial plexus extends from the neck towards the arm.

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 brachial plexus MRI price in Singapore

Brachial plexus MRI: S$1,030

The S$1,030 price includes:

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

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
• Additional imaging is requested or recommended

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

Can MediSave be used for a brachial plexus 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 brachial plexus MRI.

Please confirm eligibility before proceeding.

Can insurance cover a brachial plexus MRI?

Private insurance may cover a medically indicated brachial plexus 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 brachial plexus MRI be arranged?

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

This is subject to:

• Imaging-centre availability
• 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 does the brachial plexus control?

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that helps control movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm and hand.

What are common symptoms of a brachial plexus problem?

Possible symptoms include pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, reduced grip strength, muscle wasting or loss of function in parts of the shoulder, arm or hand.

Does every case of arm numbness require a brachial plexus MRI?

No. Arm numbness can originate from the cervical spine, brachial plexus, peripheral nerves or other locations. The appropriate investigation depends on the symptom pattern and examination findings.

Is a brachial plexus MRI the same as a cervical spine MRI?

No. A brachial plexus MRI focuses on the nerve network between the neck and arm. A cervical spine MRI focuses on the vertebrae, discs, spinal canal, spinal cord and nerve roots in the neck. Some patients may require one or both examinations depending on the suspected problem.

Is it the same as a shoulder MRI?

No. A shoulder MRI primarily assesses structures such as the rotator cuff, joint, labrum and local tendons. A brachial plexus MRI focuses on the nerve network travelling from the neck towards the arm.

Can MRI show nerve damage?

MRI may show structural changes involving nerves or surrounding tissues. However, not every nerve problem is visible on MRI. Nerve-conduction studies or electromyography may also be required to assess nerve function.

Does brachial plexus MRI use radiation?

No. MRI does not use ionising radiation.

Is contrast always required?

No. Contrast is not required for every examination. It may be recommended for particular clinical questions involving a mass, infection, inflammation, previous surgery or radiotherapy.

How much does a brachial plexus MRI cost?

A brachial plexus MRI available through The Pain Relief Clinic costs S$1,030.

The price includes:

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

Additional charges may apply if contrast, specialised 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 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$1,030 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 brachial plexus MRI within one working day, subject to MRI safety clearance, imaging-centre availability and scheduling.

Arrange a brachial plexus MRI

If persistent pain, numbness or weakness is affecting your shoulder, arm or hand, The Pain Relief Clinic can assess whether the symptoms may require further investigation.

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

Brachial plexus MRI: S$1,030

The price includes:

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

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 shoulder or arm pain, numbness or weakness. The suitability and urgency of imaging depend on the patient’s symptoms, examination, medical history and clinical circumstances.

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

Call 995 or seek immediate emergency care for sudden one-sided weakness, facial drooping, difficulty speaking, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe trauma with new paralysis, or a cold and pale arm.