Why Is My Tennis Elbow Not Healing After Months — Do I Need an MRI Scan?

Understanding why tennis elbow may not be healing after several months requires an exploration of various factors. This article addresses the reasons for persistent symptoms, the role of MRI scans in providing diagnostic clarity, and effective treatment strategies to enhance rehabilitation.

Key Takeaways

• Tennis elbow can exhibit persistent pain due to various underlying causes.
• Healing from tennis elbow typically takes weeks to months, but some cases may require longer.
• An MRI scan can help diagnose issues that are not responding to standard treatment.
• If symptoms persist, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation.
• Effective treatments include rest, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgical options.

Understanding Tennis Elbow: Symptoms and Causes

# Why Is My Tennis Elbow Not Healing After Months — Do I Need an MRI Scan?

## Why This Problem May Not Be Improving
Persistent symptoms of tennis elbow that do not improve after several months may be due to various clinical reasons, such as:
• Structural injury not previously detected
• Disc or cartilage pathology
• Ligament or tendon injury
• Nerve compression
• Bone stress reactions
• Incomplete or imprecise diagnosis
• Plateau after conservative treatment
It is important to note that if symptoms continue beyond 6–12 weeks, further evaluation may be necessary.

## When Should an MRI Scan Be Considered?
An MRI scan may be considered if:
• Pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks
• Symptoms are worsening
• There is numbness, tingling, or weakness
• There is night pain
• There is recurrent swelling
• X-rays are normal but symptoms continue
• Conservative treatment has plateaued
• The diagnosis remains unclear
• Surgery is being considered
An MRI scan provides detailed evaluation of:
• Discs
• Ligaments
• Tendons
• Cartilage
• Meniscus
• Labrum
• Nerve roots
• Bone marrow changes
Please note that MRI is not always necessary for every patient experiencing tennis elbow symptoms.

## MRI Scan Safety
MRI scans are considered safe for most patients. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan:
• Does not use ionising radiation
• Uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals
• Is widely used for detailed soft tissue assessment
All patients undergo safety screening prior to imaging.

## Transparent MRI Scan Pricing (As of 1 March 2026)
Most musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI scans are typically priced between:
SGD $950 to $1,000
Pricing depends on the body region being scanned, and fees should be confirmed during consultation.

## Specialist Radiologist Report Included
Every MRI scan includes:
• A formal report prepared by a specialist radiologist
• Detailed interpretation of findings
• Clinical correlation where appropriate
This report is provided at no additional cost.

## MRI Images Provided
Patients receive:
• MRI images
• Image films or digital copies
These are provided at no additional cost, which may support:
• Second opinions
• Specialist consultations
• Insurance claims
• Personal records

## Insurance Documentation Support
The clinic provides documentation to support eligible claims under:
• Personal accident insurance
• Travel insurance
• Company insurance
• Pre- and post-hospitalisation plans
• Company flexi-benefit programs
Reimbursement depends on individual policy terms and insurer review; therefore, claim approval is not guaranteed.

## Medisave Support
For eligible patients without insurance:
• Medisave may potentially allow up to $600 claimable
• Subject to CPF Board regulations
• Based on clinical eligibility

## Why Continuing Without Imaging May Delay Clarity
Continuing without appropriate imaging could lead to:
• Ongoing trial-and-error therapy
• Repeated treatment costs
• Persistent uncertainty
• Treating symptoms rather than root cause
• Delayed appropriate intervention

## Frequently Asked Questions
• How long should I wait before getting an MRI scan? It is typically advisable to wait at least 6–12 weeks after initiating conservative treatment before pursuing an MRI scan.
• Is an MRI scan better than an X-ray? An MRI scan provides more detailed information about soft tissues compared to an X-ray.
• Can an MRI scan detect nerve compression? Yes, an MRI scan can reveal issues related to nerve compression.
• Is an MRI scan safe? Yes, MRI scans are considered safe for most patients and do not involve radiation.
• Can I use Medisave for an MRI scan in Singapore? Yes, under certain conditions, patients may claim Medisave for MRI scans.
• How much does an MRI scan cost in Singapore? The cost is generally between SGD $950 and $1,000.
• Do I need a referral for an MRI scan? A referral may be required depending on your insurance policy or healthcare provider’s practices.

Persistent musculoskeletal symptoms that do not improve despite appropriate conservative treatment may benefit from further evaluation. An MRI scan is not always necessary, but when clinically indicated, timely imaging can support clearer diagnosis and more precise decision-making. It is advisable to seek proper medical assessment rather than rely on self-diagnosis.

The Healing Process: What to Expect

# Why Is My Tennis Elbow Not Healing After Months — Do I Need an MRI Scan?

## Why This Problem May Not Be Improving

Persistent tennis elbow symptoms that last longer than expected may be due to several clinically relevant reasons, including:
• A structural injury not previously detected
• Disc or cartilage pathology
• Ligament or tendon injury
• Nerve compression
• Bone stress reactions
• Incomplete or imprecise diagnosis
• A plateau after conservative treatment

It is advisable to consider further evaluation if symptoms persist beyond 6–12 weeks.

## When Should an MRI Scan Be Considered?

An MRI scan may be considered if:
• Pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks
• Symptoms are worsening
• There is numbness, tingling, or weakness
• There is night pain
• There is recurrent swelling
• X-rays are normal but symptoms continue
• Conservative treatment has plateaued
• Diagnosis remains unclear
• Surgery is being considered

An MRI scan provides a detailed evaluation of:
• Discs
• Ligaments
• Tendons
• Cartilage
• Meniscus
• Labrum
• Nerve roots
• Bone marrow changes

However, an MRI scan is not always necessary.

## MRI Scan Safety

MRI scans are generally considered safe for most patients. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan:
• Does not use ionising radiation
• Utilizes magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals
• Is widely used for detailed soft tissue assessment

All patients undergo safety screening prior to imaging.

## Transparent MRI Scan Pricing (As of 1 March 2026)

Most musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI scans are typically priced between:
SGD $950 to $1,000

Pricing depends on the body region being scanned. Fees should be confirmed during consultation.

## Specialist Radiologist Report Included

Every MRI scan includes:
• A formal report prepared by a specialist radiologist
• Detailed interpretation of findings
• Clinical correlation where appropriate

This report is provided at no additional cost.

## MRI Images Provided

Patients receive:
• MRI images
• Image films or digital copies

These are provided at no additional cost, which may support:
• Second opinions
• Specialist consultations
• Insurance claims
• Personal records

## Insurance Documentation Support

The clinic provides documentation to support eligible claims under:
• Personal accident insurance
• Travel insurance
• Company insurance
• Pre- and post-hospitalisation plans
• Company flexi-benefit programs

Reimbursement depends on individual policy terms and insurer review.

## Medisave Support

For eligible patients without insurance:
• Medisave may potentially allow up to $600 claimable
• Subject to CPF Board regulations
• Based on clinical eligibility

## Why Continuing Without Imaging May Delay Clarity

Continuing without imaging could lead to:
• Ongoing trial-and-error therapy
• Repeated treatment costs
• Persistent uncertainty
• Treating symptoms rather than the root cause
• Delayed appropriate intervention

## Frequently Asked Questions

• How long should I wait before getting an MRI scan?
It is generally recommended to consider an MRI scan if pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks.

• Is an MRI scan better than an X-ray?
An MRI scan provides more detailed images of soft tissues than X-rays.

• Can an MRI scan detect nerve compression?
Yes, an MRI scan can identify areas of nerve compression in soft tissues.

• Is an MRI scan safe?
Yes, MRI scans are safe and do not use ionising radiation.

• Can I use Medisave for an MRI scan in Singapore?
Medisave may be claimable for eligible patients, subject to applicable CPF Board regulations.

• How much does an MRI scan cost in Singapore?
The typical cost for an MRI scan ranges from SGD $950 to $1,000, depending on the body region.

• Do I need a referral for an MRI scan?
A referral may be required depending on the clinic and specific circumstances.

Persistent musculoskeletal symptoms that do not improve despite appropriate conservative treatment may benefit from further evaluation. An MRI scan is not always necessary, but when clinically indicated, timely imaging can support clearer diagnosis and more precise decision-making. It is important to seek proper medical assessment rather than relying on self-diagnosis.

‘The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.’ – Nelson Mandela

When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation: The Role of MRI

# Why Is My Tennis Elbow Not Healing After Months — Do I Need an MRI Scan?

## Why This Problem May Not Be Improving
Persistent symptoms associated with tennis elbow may arise from several clinically relevant factors. It is possible that a structural injury was not previously detected. There might be underlying disc or cartilage pathology, ligament or tendon injuries, or nerve compression that contributes to ongoing discomfort. In some cases, bone stress reactions or an incomplete or imprecise diagnosis could be factors. Additionally, patients may reach a plateau after conservative treatment, making it essential to consider further evaluation if symptoms persist beyond 6 to 12 weeks.

## When Should an MRI Scan Be Considered?
An MRI scan may be considered if:
• Pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks
• Symptoms are worsening
• There is numbness, tingling, or weakness
• There is night pain
• There is recurrent swelling
• X-rays are normal but symptoms continue
• Conservative treatment has plateaued
• Diagnosis remains unclear
• Surgery is being considered
An MRI scan provides detailed evaluation of various structures, including discs, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, meniscus, labrum, nerve roots, and bone marrow changes, which can assist in correctly identifying the cause of persistent symptoms.

## MRI Scan Safety
MRI scans are considered safe for most patients. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan does not use ionising radiation; instead, it uses magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals. This method is widely used for a comprehensive assessment of soft tissues in the body. Patients will undergo safety screening prior to imaging to identify any potential contraindications.

## Transparent MRI Scan Pricing (As of 1 March 2026)
Most musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI scans are typically priced between SGD $950 to $1,000, depending on the body region being scanned. It is advisable to confirm fees during your consultation to ensure accurate financial planning.

## Specialist Radiologist Report Included
Every MRI scan includes a comprehensive report prepared by a specialist radiologist. This report contains a detailed interpretation of findings and clinical correlation where appropriate, all provided at no additional cost.

## MRI Images Provided
Patients receive MRI images, including either image films or digital copies, at no extra charge. This provision can support various needs, including second opinions, specialist consultations, insurance claims, and personal records.

## Insurance Documentation Support
The clinic provides documentation to support eligible claims under various insurance types, including personal accident insurance, travel insurance, company insurance, pre- and post-hospitalisation plans, and company flexi-benefit programs. It is vital to note that reimbursement depends on the individual policy terms and insurer review, and claim approval is not guaranteed.

## Medisave Support
For patients without insurance, Medisave may potentially allow for a claim of up to $600, subject to CPF Board regulations and based on clinical eligibility. Claims are considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on the specific details at hand.

## Why Continuing Without Imaging May Delay Clarity
Not pursuing imaging when indicated may inadvertently lead to ongoing trial-and-error therapy, repeated treatment costs, and persistent uncertainty. It risks treating symptoms without addressing the underlying issue, which may delay appropriate intervention and prolong recovery.

## Frequently Asked Questions
• How long should I wait before getting an MRI scan? It is typically recommended to wait 6 to 12 weeks after the onset of symptoms unless they worsen or present with concerning signs.
• Is an MRI scan better than an X-ray? An MRI scan provides a more detailed view of soft tissues compared to an X-ray, which mainly captures bone structure.
• Can an MRI scan detect nerve compression? Yes, an MRI scan can identify nerve compression and associated conditions.
• Is an MRI scan safe? Yes, MRI scans are safe for most individuals and do not involve ionising radiation.
• Can I use Medisave for an MRI scan in Singapore? Yes, eligible patients may access Medisave claims for MRI scans, subject to existing regulations.
• How much does an MRI scan cost in Singapore? The cost typically ranges from SGD $950 to $1,000, varying by body region.
• Do I need a referral for an MRI scan? A referral is not always mandatory, but it may be beneficial depending on your healthcare provider’s requirements.

Persistent musculoskeletal symptoms that do not improve despite appropriate conservative treatment may benefit from further evaluation. An MRI scan is not always necessary, but when clinically indicated, timely imaging can support clearer diagnosis and more precise decision-making. Proper medical assessment is essential to avoid self-diagnosis.

Effective Treatment Strategies for Tennis Elbow

# Why Is My Tennis Elbow Not Healing After Months — Do I Need an MRI Scan?

## Why This Problem May Not Be Improving
Persistent symptoms of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) beyond a few months can stem from several clinically relevant factors. Possible reasons for a lack of healing include a structural injury that was not previously detected, such as a tear in the tendon or related soft tissues. Additionally, disc or cartilage pathology, ligament or tendon injury, nerve compression, or bone stress reactions could contribute to ongoing pain. An incomplete or imprecise diagnosis may also hinder recovery, alongside the possibility of reaching a plateau after conservative treatment methods. If symptoms persist beyond 6–12 weeks, further evaluation may be necessary to assess the underlying cause of discomfort and explore appropriate interventions.

## When Should an MRI Scan Be Considered?
An MRI scan may be considered if:
• Pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks.
• Symptoms are worsening.
• There is numbness, tingling, or weakness.
• There is night pain.
• There is recurrent swelling.
• X-rays are normal but symptoms continue.
• Conservative treatment has plateaued.
• Diagnosis remains unclear.
• Surgery is being considered.

An MRI scan provides a detailed evaluation of various structures, including discs, ligaments, tendons, cartilage, meniscus, labrum, nerve roots, and bone marrow changes. While an MRI can offer insight, it is important to note that it may not be necessary in every case.

## MRI Scan Safety
MRI scans are generally considered safe for most patients. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, an MRI scan does not use ionising radiation; instead, it utilizes magnetic fields and radiofrequency signals to obtain images. This imaging technique is widely used for comprehensive soft tissue assessment. Prior to the scan, all patients will undergo safety screening to ensure suitability for the procedure.

## Transparent MRI Scan Pricing (As of 1 March 2026)
Most musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI scans typically range from SGD $950 to $1,000. The specific pricing depends on the body region being scanned, and all fees should be confirmed during the consultation process.

## Specialist Radiologist Report Included
Every MRI scan includes a formal report prepared by a specialist radiologist. This report contains a detailed interpretation of the findings and provides clinical correlation where appropriate—all at no additional cost to the patient.

## MRI Images Provided
Patients receive their MRI images, including either physical film or digital copies, at no extra charge. These images may support second opinions, specialist consultations, insurance claims, or personal records.

## Insurance Documentation Support
Our clinic offers documentation to assist with eligible claims through:
• Personal accident insurance
• Travel insurance
• Company insurance
• Pre- and post-hospitalisation plans
• Company flexi-benefit programs

It is important to clarify that reimbursement is subject to individual policy terms and insurer review, and we cannot guarantee claim approval.

## Medisave Support
For eligible patients without insurance, Medisave may potentially allow up to $600 to be claimable, subject to CPF Board regulations and based on clinical eligibility for the procedure.

## Why Continuing Without Imaging May Delay Clarity
Continuing treatment without appropriate imaging may lead to prolonged uncertainty around diagnosis and may perpetuate a cycle of ongoing trial-and-error therapy, repeated treatment costs, and symptom management rather than addressing the root cause. Timely imaging can facilitate a clearer diagnosis and appropriate interventions.

## Frequently Asked Questions
• How long should I wait before getting an MRI scan? It is generally advisable to consider an MRI scan if pain persists beyond 6–12 weeks of conservative treatment.
• Is an MRI scan better than an X-ray? An MRI scan provides more detailed images of soft tissues, whereas X-rays primarily show bone structure.
• Can an MRI scan detect nerve compression? Yes, an MRI scan is effective in identifying areas of nerve compression.
• Is an MRI scan safe? MRI scans are safe for most patients, as they do not use ionising radiation.
• Can I use Medisave for an MRI scan in Singapore? Medisave may be claimable for eligible patients, subject to CPF regulations.
• How much does an MRI scan cost in Singapore? The cost typically ranges from SGD $950 to $1,000 depending on the region scanned.
• Do I need a referral for an MRI scan? A referral may be required, depending on individual circumstances and clinic policies.

Persistent musculoskeletal symptoms that do not improve despite appropriate conservative treatment may benefit from further evaluation. An MRI scan is not always necessary, but when clinically indicated, timely imaging can support clearer diagnosis and more precise decision-making. It’s essential to encourage proper medical assessment rather than self-diagnosis.