FAQ: MRI for Cervical Disc Prolapse

What is a cervical disc prolapse?

A cervical disc prolapse (also called cervical disc herniation) occurs when a disc in the neck bulges or protrudes and irritates or compresses nearby nerves or the spinal cord. This can lead to neck pain, arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Is cervical disc prolapse the same as general neck pain?

No. While neck pain can be muscular or posture-related, a cervical disc prolapse specifically involves disc displacement that affects nerves or the spinal cord.

MRI is often needed to confirm whether symptoms are disc-related rather than muscular.

Do all suspected cervical disc prolapses need an MRI?

Not always.

An MRI is commonly considered when:

• Neck pain radiates to the arm or hand

• There is numbness, tingling, or weakness

• Symptoms persist beyond a few weeks

• Pain worsens instead of improving

• Clinical decisions depend on knowing which disc and nerve are involved

Why is MRI important for cervical disc prolapse?

MRI is the most accurate imaging method for assessing:

• The exact disc level involved

• Degree of disc protrusion or herniation

• Nerve root compression

• Possible spinal cord involvement

X-rays cannot visualise discs or nerves clearly and may appear normal despite significant symptoms.

When should MRI be done more urgently?

MRI is more urgently considered when symptoms include:

• Progressive arm weakness

• Increasing numbness

• Clumsiness or loss of hand coordination

• Severe or worsening pain affecting daily function

Early imaging helps guide timely and appropriate care.

How long does it take to get an MRI for cervical disc prolapse in Singapore?

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

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

At The Pain Relief Clinic, cervical spine MRI scans for suspected disc prolapse can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to assessment.

How much does a cervical disc MRI cost in Singapore?

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 cervical spine MRI scans

  • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

Do I need to go to a separate hospital or imaging centre?

Many pathways require:

• Seeing a doctor at one clinic

• Travelling to a separate imaging centre

• Returning again 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 cervical disc prolapse 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 costs
  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 helps manage unexpected imaging expenses.

What happens after the MRI confirms a cervical disc prolapse?

After imaging:

• Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

• The disc level and degree of nerve involvement are explained clearly

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

Having accurate imaging reduces unnecessary delays or misdirected treatment.

Key Takeaway

A cervical disc prolapse cannot be reliably diagnosed on symptoms or X-rays alone. MRI provides the clarity needed for safe, informed decision-making.

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