Q1: What is sciatica and what causes it?
Sciatica is pain, tingling, or numbness radiating from the lower back down the leg, usually caused by compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve. Common causes include herniated discs, spinal stenosis, spondylolisthesis, or degenerative changes in the spine.

Q2: Can exercises, physiotherapy, or medications relieve sciatica without imaging?
These treatments may temporarily reduce pain and improve mobility, but they cannot confirm the underlying cause. Without MRI, serious issues such as disc herniation or nerve compression may go undiagnosed, delaying proper treatment and risking worsening symptoms.

Q3: When should I get an MRI for sciatica?
Consider MRI if you have:

• Persistent pain beyond a few weeks

• Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg

• 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, identifying the exact cause and guiding treatment.

Q4: Why is MRI better than X-ray, CT, or ultrasound for sciatica?

• X-rays: Only show bone alignment, not soft tissue or nerve compression.

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

• Ultrasound: Cannot visualize deep spinal structures.

MRI is superior because it shows all spinal structures clearly and safely, without radiation.

Q5: Where can I get a fast and affordable MRI for sciatica in Singapore?
The Pain Relief Clinic provides insurance and Medisave claimable MRI scans under $1,000, completed within 1 working day. Combined with non-surgical treatments like hot therapy, guided exercises, and physiotherapy, this ensures safe, effective relief and a faster return to normal activities.