Q1: What are the first steps to treat back pain at home?
Start with rest, gentle stretching, and over-the-counter pain relief if the pain is mild. Maintaining good posture, avoiding heavy lifting, and using ergonomic seating can reduce strain. However, if pain persists beyond a few days or worsens, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause.

Q2: Can physiotherapy, chiropractic, or acupuncture fix back pain?
These treatments may help relieve symptoms temporarily and improve mobility, but they cannot diagnose the root cause. Without clear imaging, such as MRI, serious conditions like herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or fractures may be missed, delaying effective treatment.

Q3: When should I consider getting an MRI for back pain?
Consider MRI if you have:

• Pain persisting for several weeks despite therapy

• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in legs

• Loss of bladder or bowel control (urgent red flag)

• Pain limiting work, sports, or daily activities

MRI provides high-resolution, radiation-free imaging of discs, nerves, ligaments, and vertebrae, helping to pinpoint the exact cause and guide proper treatment.

Q4: Why not just rely on X-ray, CT, or ultrasound?

• X-rays: Show bone alignment but cannot detect soft tissue problems or nerve compression.

• CT scans: Good for bones but limited for discs and ligaments.

• Ultrasound: Cannot see deep spinal structures.

MRI is superior because it provides comprehensive, clear imaging of all spinal structures without radiation.

Q5: Where can I get a fast and affordable MRI for back pain in Singapore?
The Pain Relief Clinic offers insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, done within 1 working day. Combined with non-surgical treatments like hot therapy, guided exercises, and physiotherapy, this approach helps you recover safely and return to work, exercise, or daily life without unnecessary delays.