FAQ: MRI for Neck Pain (Cervical Spine Pain)

What is cervical spine (neck) pain?

Neck pain arises from the cervical spine, which includes vertebrae, discs, joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves in the neck region. It is common among people with desk-based work, prolonged screen use, poor posture, previous injuries, or age-related wear and tear.

Does neck pain always require an MRI?

No. Many cases of neck pain are muscular or posture-related and improve with rest, activity modification, and conservative care.

An MRI is usually considered when:

• Pain persists beyond a few weeks

• Symptoms keep recurring

• There is arm pain, numbness, or tingling

• X-rays are normal but symptoms continue

• Clinical decisions depend on knowing the exact cause

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed images of soft tissues, allowing doctors to assess:

• Cervical disc bulges or herniation

• Nerve root compression

• Spinal cord involvement

• Disc degeneration

• Ligament or soft tissue injury

X-rays mainly show bone alignment and degeneration but cannot visualise discs or nerves clearly.

When is an MRI especially useful for neck pain?

MRI is commonly recommended when:

• Neck pain radiates to the shoulder, arm, or hand

• There is tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arm

• Pain worsens instead of improving

• Symptoms affect work, sleep, or daily activities

• Pain persists despite physiotherapy or medication

• There is concern about nerve or spinal cord involvement

How long does it take to get a cervical spine MRI in Singapore?

Waiting time depends on the care pathway:

• Public hospitals:
  Non-urgent outpatient cervical spine MRIs may involve waiting weeks or more, depending on demand and prioritisation.

• Private or clinic-based options:
  MRI scans are usually arranged much faster.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, cervical spine MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical suitability.

How much does a neck MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary depending on provider, scan complexity, and whether contrast is required.

• Public hospitals:
  Lower out-of-pocket costs with subsidies, but longer waiting times.

• Private hospitals / imaging centres:
  Higher and often variable pricing.

• The Pain Relief Clinic:

  • Clear upfront pricing, typically under S$1,000 for common outpatient cervical spine MRI scans

  • Costs explained before proceeding, helping patients plan financially

Do I need to travel to another imaging centre for the MRI?

In many pathways, patients must:

• See a doctor at one location

• Travel to a separate imaging centre

• Return later for review

At The Pain Relief Clinic:

• MRI coordination is handled within the same clinic system

• No off-site imaging travel is required

• Faster review and smoother coordination of care

Can Medisave be used for a cervical spine MRI?

Yes. Medisave can be used for outpatient MRI scans, subject to prevailing outpatient diagnostic limits.

Patients can clarify:

• Eligibility for Medisave usage

• Expected out-of-pocket cost
  before proceeding with the scan.

Are insurance claims or instalment options available?

Depending on coverage, patients at The Pain Relief Clinic may access:

• Insurance claim support (corporate and personal plans, subject to insurer rules)

• Cashless arrangements where applicable

• Interest-free instalment plans

• Cash and card payments

These options help manage the financial impact of unexpected imaging needs.

What happens after the MRI?

After the MRI:

• Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

• The cause of neck pain or nerve involvement is explained clearly

• Next steps may include targeted conservative care, further evaluation, or referral if appropriate

Clear imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

Not all neck pain requires an MRI—but when symptoms persist, radiate, or worsen, imaging clarity becomes important.

In Singapore:

• Public hospitals offer subsidised scans but may involve waiting weeks or more

• Private hospitals provide faster access with variable pricing

• The Pain Relief Clinic offers a practical option with:

  • Clear upfront pricing under S$1,000

  • Fast MRI arrangement

  • No off-site imaging

  • Flexible payment options, including Medisave, insurance, cashless and instalments