FAQ: MRI for Post-Injury Back Pain

What is post-injury back pain?

Post-injury back pain refers to pain that develops after a fall, accident, sports injury, or sudden strain. Symptoms may appear immediately—or worsen days or weeks later—and can involve discs, ligaments, muscles, joints, or nerves.

If my X-ray shows no fracture, why do I still have pain?

X-rays mainly show bones and alignment. They often cannot detect:

• Disc bulges or herniation

• Ligament or soft-tissue injury

• Nerve irritation or compression

MRI is designed to evaluate these non-bony structures, which are common pain sources after injury.

Does post-injury back pain always need an MRI?

Not always. Minor strains may improve with time and conservative care.

An MRI is commonly considered when:

• Pain persists beyond a few weeks

• Pain is worsening or changing

• There is leg pain, numbness, or weakness

• X-rays are normal but symptoms remain significant

• Treatment decisions depend on knowing the exact injury

What can an MRI show after a back injury?

MRI can identify:

• Disc injury (bulge, protrusion, herniation)

• Ligament or soft-tissue damage

• Nerve compression or inflammation

• Subtle structural changes not seen on X-ray

This helps clarify why pain persists after an injury.

When should MRI be done sooner rather than later?

MRI is more strongly considered when:

• Pain limits work, sleep, or daily function

• There is progressive leg pain or neurological symptoms

• Pain does not improve despite physiotherapy or medication

• Symptoms worsen after initial improvement

Early clarity helps avoid prolonged trial-and-error care.

How long does it take to get an MRI in Singapore after an injury?

Timing depends on the pathway:

• Public hospitals:
  Non-urgent outpatient MRI appointments may involve waiting weeks or more, depending on demand.

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

At The Pain Relief Clinic, spine MRI scans for post-injury back pain can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does an MRI for post-injury back pain cost?

Costs vary by provider and scan complexity:

• Public hospitals:
  Lower out-of-pocket cost 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 spine MRI scans

  • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing uncertainty

Do I need to go to a separate imaging centre?

Often, yes. Many pathways require:

• Seeing a doctor at one clinic

• Travelling to a separate imaging centre

• Returning later for review

At The Pain Relief Clinic:

• MRI coordination is handled within the same clinic system

• No off-site imaging travel

• Faster review and smoother coordination

Can Medisave be used for MRI after an injury?

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.

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

This flexibility is helpful when injuries lead to unexpected medical expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

• Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

• The source of post-injury pain is explained clearly

• Next steps may include targeted conservative care, monitoring, or referral if needed

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays and ineffective treatment paths.

Key Takeaway

Post-injury back pain can persist even when X-rays look normal. MRI often provides the missing clarity needed to guide recovery.

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