Suspected Spinal Stenosis: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Suspected Spinal Stenosis

What is spinal stenosis?

Spinal stenosis refers to narrowing of the spinal canal or nerve exit pathways, which can compress nerves. It most commonly affects the lumbar spine, especially with age-related changes, and may cause back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness.

What symptoms raise suspicion of spinal stenosis?

Symptoms commonly include:

  • Leg pain or heaviness when walking

  • Numbness or tingling in the legs

  • Symptoms that worsen with standing or walking

  • Relief when sitting or bending forward

  • Reduced walking distance over time

These features often point toward nerve compression from spinal narrowing.

Does suspected spinal stenosis always need an MRI?

Not always.

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Symptoms persist or worsen over time

  • Walking distance continues to reduce

  • There is numbness or weakness

  • X-rays do not explain the severity of symptoms

  • Treatment decisions depend on knowing where and how severe the narrowing is

Why is MRI important for diagnosing spinal stenosis?

MRI is the most useful imaging method for spinal stenosis because it can show:

  • Degree of spinal canal narrowing

  • Nerve root compression

  • Disc bulges and ligament thickening

  • Changes affecting the spinal canal and nerve exits

X-rays may show degeneration but cannot assess nerve compression reliably.

When should MRI be done sooner rather than later?

MRI is more strongly considered when:

  • Walking tolerance is declining

  • There is leg weakness

  • Symptoms affect daily independence

  • Conservative treatment is no longer effective

Clear imaging helps guide timely decisions and avoid prolonged uncertainty.

How long does it take to get an MRI for spinal stenosis in Singapore?

Timing depends on the care pathway:

  • Public hospitals:
    Non-urgent outpatient MRI scans 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 suspected spinal stenosis can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to assessment.

How much does an MRI for spinal stenosis 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 lumbar spine MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, allowing patients to plan financially

Do I need to visit a separate imaging centre for the MRI?

Often, yes. Many patients need to:

  • Consult a doctor at one location

  • Travel to a separate imaging centre

  • Return 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 care coordination

Can Medisave be used for MRI scans for spinal stenosis?

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

These options help manage ongoing or unexpected medical expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After the MRI:

  • The degree and location of spinal narrowing are reviewed

  • Findings are explained clearly in relation to walking and leg symptoms

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatment pathways.

Key Takeaway

Suspected spinal stenosis is a structural condition where MRI plays a key role in confirming diagnosis and guiding decisions.

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

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Sciatica and Nerve Compression: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Sciatica and Nerve Compression

What is sciatica?

Sciatica refers to pain that travels from the lower back down the buttock and leg, usually following the path of the sciatic nerve. It is commonly caused by nerve compression in the lumbar spine, often from a slipped disc, disc bulge, or spinal narrowing.

Is sciatica always caused by a slipped disc?

No. While slipped discs are common causes, sciatica can also result from:

  • Disc bulges without full herniation

  • Spinal canal or foraminal narrowing

  • Degenerative changes of the spine

  • Inflammation around the nerve

MRI helps identify the exact cause and location of nerve compression.

Do all cases of sciatica need an MRI?

Not always.

An MRI is usually considered when:

  • Leg pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Symptoms are worsening or recurrent

  • There is numbness, tingling, or weakness

  • Pain significantly affects walking, work, or sleep

  • Initial treatment does not provide sustained relief

Why is MRI important for nerve-related pain?

MRI is the best imaging method to visualise:

  • Nerves and nerve roots

  • Discs and surrounding soft tissue

  • Areas of compression or inflammation

X-rays cannot show nerves or discs clearly and are therefore limited in evaluating sciatica.

When should MRI be done urgently for sciatica?

MRI is more urgently considered when sciatica is associated with:

  • Progressive leg weakness

  • Increasing numbness

  • Difficulty controlling movement

  • Severe, unrelenting pain

Early imaging helps guide timely and appropriate care.

How long does it take to get an MRI for sciatica in Singapore?

This depends on the care pathway:

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

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

At The Pain Relief Clinic, MRI scans for sciatica and nerve compression can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical suitability.

How much does an MRI for sciatica cost in Singapore?

Costs vary depending on provider and scan details:

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

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

  • The Pain Relief Clinic:

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

    • Costs explained before proceeding, allowing patients to plan financially

Do I need to go to another location for the MRI?

In many cases, patients need to:

  • Consult a doctor at one clinic

  • Travel to a separate imaging centre

  • Return again 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 care coordination

Can Medisave be used for MRI scans for sciatica?

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

Patients can check:

  • Eligibility for Medisave use

  • Expected out-of-pocket costs
    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

This flexibility helps manage unexpected medical expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After the MRI:

  • Imaging findings are reviewed in relation to symptoms

  • The location and cause of nerve compression are explained clearly

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

Clear imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

Sciatica is a symptom of nerve compression, and MRI is often the most reliable way to identify the cause.

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 alternative with:

    • Clear upfront pricing under S$1,000

    • Fast MRI arrangement

    • No off-site imaging

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

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Slipped Disc (Disc Herniation): When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Slipped Disc (Disc Herniation)

What is a slipped disc?

A slipped disc—also known as a disc herniation—occurs when the soft inner portion of an intervertebral disc pushes out through its outer layer. This can irritate or compress nearby nerves, leading to back pain, leg pain, numbness, or weakness.

It commonly affects the lumbar spine (lower back) but can also occur in the neck.

Does a suspected slipped disc always need an MRI?

Not always.

An MRI is usually considered when:

  • Symptoms are persistent or worsening

  • Pain radiates down the arm or leg

  • There is numbness, tingling, or weakness

  • Conservative treatment has not helped

  • Decisions depend on knowing which disc and nerve are involved

MRI is the most accurate imaging method for confirming a slipped disc.

Why is MRI preferred over X-ray for a slipped disc?

X-rays show bones and alignment but cannot visualise discs or nerves.

MRI can clearly show:

  • The exact disc involved

  • Degree of disc bulge or herniation

  • Whether a nerve is compressed

  • Associated inflammation or degeneration

This level of detail is critical for guiding next steps.

When should an MRI be done for suspected disc herniation?

An MRI is commonly recommended when:

  • Pain lasts more than 4–6 weeks

  • There is leg pain (sciatica) or arm pain

  • Symptoms worsen instead of improving

  • There is weakness or altered sensation

  • Pain affects work, sleep, or daily activities

  • Treatment decisions depend on imaging clarity

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

Waiting time depends on the care pathway:

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

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

At The Pain Relief Clinic, MRI scans for suspected slipped discs can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does an MRI for a slipped disc cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan complexity:

  • Public hospitals:
    Lower out-of-pocket cost due to subsidies, but longer waiting times.

  • Private hospitals / imaging centres:
    Higher and sometimes unpredictable pricing.

  • The Pain Relief Clinic:

    • Clear upfront pricing, typically under S$1,000 for common outpatient disc-related MRI scans

    • Costs are explained before the scan, helping patients plan financially

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

In many cases, yes—patients may need to:

  • 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, meaning:

  • No off-site imaging travel

  • Reduced administrative delays

  • Faster review of results in context

Can Medisave be used for a slipped disc MRI?

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

The clinic can advise:

  • Whether your scan qualifies

  • Expected out-of-pocket cost before proceeding

Are insurance claims or flexible payment options available?

Yes, depending on your coverage.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, patients may access:

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

  • Cashless arrangements where applicable

  • Interest-free instalment options

  • Cash and card payments

This flexibility helps reduce financial strain, especially for unexpected imaging needs.

What happens after the MRI confirms a slipped disc?

Once imaging is completed:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside your symptoms

  • The degree and location of disc herniation are explained

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

Having clear imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or ineffective treatments.

Key Takeaway

A slipped disc cannot be reliably diagnosed on symptoms or X-rays alone. MRI provides the clarity needed to guide safe, informed decisions.

In Singapore:

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

  • Private hospitals offer faster access with variable pricing

  • The Pain Relief Clinic offers a practical alternative with:

    • Clear upfront pricing under S$1,000

    • Fast MRI arrangement

    • No off-site imaging

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

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Lower Back Pain (Lumbar Spine Pain): When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Lower Back Pain

What is lower back (lumbar spine) pain?

Lower back pain refers to pain arising from the lumbar spine, which includes vertebrae, intervertebral discs, facet joints, ligaments, muscles, and nearby nerves. It is one of the most common reasons adults in Singapore seek medical care, especially among office workers, manual workers, and active adults.

Do all cases of lower back pain need an MRI?

No. Many episodes of acute lower back pain improve with rest, activity modification, and time.

However, an MRI becomes important when:

  • Pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Symptoms worsen or keep recurring

  • There is leg pain, numbness, or weakness

  • X-rays are normal but pain remains unexplained

  • Treatment decisions depend on knowing the exact cause

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

An MRI provides detailed views of soft tissues, including:

  • Slipped or bulging discs

  • Nerve compression or irritation

  • Disc degeneration

  • Spinal canal narrowing (stenosis)

  • Ligament or muscle injury

  • Inflammatory or structural causes of pain

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

When is an MRI especially useful for lower back pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Pain lasts more than 4–6 weeks

  • Pain radiates down the leg (sciatica-type symptoms)

  • Pain follows a fall or accident

  • Pain interferes with work or sleep

  • Symptoms persist despite physiotherapy or medication

  • There is concern about nerve involvement

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

This depends on where you go:

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

  • Private and clinic-based options:
    MRI scans can often be arranged much faster, sometimes within days.

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

How much does a lumbar spine MRI cost in Singapore?

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

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

  • Private hospitals and imaging centres:
    Costs are higher and may vary significantly.

  • The Pain Relief Clinic:
    MRI scans are offered with clear upfront pricing, typically under S$1,000 for common outpatient lumbar spine scans.
    Patients are informed of the cost before proceeding, reducing uncertainty.

Do I need to go to a hospital or another imaging centre for the MRI?

Not necessarily.

Some pathways require:

  • Seeing a doctor at one location

  • Travelling to a separate hospital or imaging centre

  • Returning again for review

At The Pain Relief Clinic, MRI coordination is handled within the same clinic system, meaning:

  • No off-site travel for imaging

  • Reduced administrative delays

  • Faster clinical review once results are available

Can I use Medisave for a lumbar spine MRI?

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

The exact claimable amount depends on:

  • Current Medisave rules

  • Scan indication

  • Whether contrast is used

The clinic team can advise on eligibility and expected out-of-pocket costs before the scan.

Are insurance claims or cashless options available?

Yes, depending on your coverage.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, patients may access:

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

  • Cashless arrangements where applicable

  • Interest-free instalment options, helping manage cash flow

  • Cash and card payments

This flexibility is particularly useful for unexpected or urgent scans.

What happens after the MRI?

Once the MRI is completed:

  • Images and reports are reviewed in the clinical context

  • Findings are explained in clear, practical terms

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

Having imaging and clinical review aligned helps avoid unnecessary delays or repeat scans.

Key Takeaway

For persistent or unexplained lower back pain, an MRI can provide clarity that guides effective decision-making.

In Singapore:

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

  • Private hospitals provide faster access but with variable pricing

  • The Pain Relief Clinic offers a practical alternative with:

    • Clear upfront pricing under S$1,000

    • Fast MRI arrangement

    • No off-site imaging

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

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