Tailbone (Coccyx) Pain: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Tailbone (Coccyx) Pain

What is tailbone (coccyx) pain?

Tailbone pain, also known as coccydynia, refers to pain at the very bottom of the spine where the coccyx is located. It is often felt when sitting, leaning back, or rising from a seated position, and can be sharp, aching, or persistent.

What commonly causes coccyx pain?

Common causes include:

  • Falls or direct trauma (e.g. slipping and landing on the buttocks)

  • Prolonged sitting on hard surfaces

  • Repetitive strain or poor sitting posture

  • Childbirth-related strain

  • Degenerative or inflammatory changes

In some cases, the cause is not obvious on X-rays.

Does tailbone pain always require an MRI?

No. Many cases improve with:

  • Activity modification

  • Cushion support

  • Time and conservative care

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Symptoms are worsening or recurrent

  • Pain significantly affects sitting, work, or sleep

  • X-rays do not explain ongoing symptoms

  • Treatment decisions depend on knowing the exact cause

What can an MRI show that X-rays may miss?

MRI can evaluate:

  • Soft-tissue inflammation around the coccyx

  • Ligament or muscle injury

  • Bone marrow changes

  • Subtle fractures or stress injury

  • Less common structural causes of pain

X-rays mainly show alignment and fractures but often miss soft-tissue and inflammatory causes.

When is MRI especially helpful for coccyx pain?

MRI is often useful when:

  • Pain started after a fall and did not resolve

  • Sitting pain is severe or persistent

  • Symptoms do not improve despite physiotherapy or medication

  • Pain is unexplained and ongoing

  • There is concern about deeper structural issues

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

Timing depends on the care pathway:

  • 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 usually arranged faster.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, coccyx and lower spine MRI scans can typically be arranged within one working day, subject to clinical assessment.

How much does an MRI for coccyx pain cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan details:

  • 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 coccyx or lower spine MRI scans

    • Costs explained before proceeding, reducing financial uncertainty

Do I need to go 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

  • Faster review and smoother coordination of care

Can Medisave be used for MRI scans for tailbone pain?

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 helps manage unexpected or persistent pain-related expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of coccyx pain is explained clearly

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

Clear imaging helps avoid prolonged uncertainty and ineffective treatment cycles.

Key Takeaway

Tailbone pain is uncomfortable and often disruptive, especially when sitting. When symptoms persist or X-rays do not explain the pain, MRI can provide crucial clarity.

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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Post-Injury Back Pain: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

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

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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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Chronic Back Pain With Normal X-rays: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Chronic Back Pain With Normal X-rays

What does “chronic back pain with normal X-rays” mean?

This describes back pain that persists for weeks or months, yet X-ray findings do not explain the symptoms. X-rays mainly show bones and alignment; they often miss problems involving discs, nerves, ligaments, and other soft tissues.

If my X-ray is normal, does that mean nothing is wrong?

Not necessarily. A normal X-ray does not rule out:

  • Disc degeneration or bulge

  • Nerve irritation or compression

  • Facet joint inflammation

  • Ligament or soft-tissue injury

MRI is designed to evaluate these structures in detail.

When should an MRI be considered for chronic back pain?

An MRI is commonly considered when:

  • Pain persists beyond 4–6 weeks

  • Symptoms keep recurring

  • Pain affects work, sleep, or daily function

  • X-rays do not explain the severity of symptoms

  • Treatment decisions depend on knowing the exact pain source

Why is MRI more useful than X-ray in this situation?

MRI can visualise:

  • Intervertebral discs

  • Nerve roots and spinal canal

  • Soft tissues and ligaments

  • Inflammatory or degenerative changes

This helps identify hidden causes of pain that are invisible on X-rays.

What symptoms suggest MRI is especially helpful?

MRI is often useful when chronic back pain is associated with:

  • Leg pain, numbness, or tingling

  • Weakness

  • Pain that worsens rather than improves

  • Poor response to physiotherapy or medication

These features suggest the pain may not be purely muscular.

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

This depends on where you go:

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

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

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

How much does an MRI cost for chronic back pain?

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 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 patients 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

  • No off-site imaging travel

  • Faster review and smoother coordination

Can Medisave be used for MRI in chronic back pain cases?

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 helps manage ongoing medical expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After imaging:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The underlying cause of pain is explained clearly

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid prolonged guesswork and ineffective treatment cycles.

Key Takeaway

Chronic back pain with a normal X-ray does not mean the problem is “all in the muscles.” MRI often provides the missing information needed to guide appropriate care.

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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Thoracic Spine (Mid-Back) Pain: When Is an MRI Needed in Singapore?

Uncategorized | 2025 Dec

FAQ: MRI for Thoracic Spine (Mid-Back) Pain

What is thoracic spine (mid-back) pain?

Thoracic spine pain refers to pain arising from the mid-back region, between the neck and lower back. This area includes vertebrae, discs, joints, muscles, ligaments, and nerves connected to the chest wall and ribs.

Although less common than neck or lower back pain, thoracic pain is often more concerning when persistent, because it is less likely to be purely muscular.

Is mid-back pain common?

Thoracic spine pain is less common than cervical or lumbar pain, but when it occurs and does not improve, doctors are often more cautious.

Persistent thoracic pain is more likely to warrant imaging evaluation, especially when symptoms are unexplained.

Does thoracic spine pain always require an MRI?

No. Short-term mid-back pain related to posture, muscle strain, or minor overuse can improve with conservative care.

An MRI is usually considered when:

  • Pain persists beyond a few weeks

  • Pain is unexplained or worsening

  • X-rays are normal but symptoms continue

  • Pain affects breathing, movement, or sleep

  • Clinical decisions depend on knowing the exact cause

What can an MRI show that X-rays cannot?

MRI provides detailed imaging of soft tissues, allowing assessment of:

  • Thoracic disc bulges or herniation

  • Nerve or spinal cord compression

  • Inflammatory or degenerative changes

  • Ligament or soft-tissue injury

  • Less common structural causes of pain

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

When is an MRI especially important for thoracic pain?

MRI is commonly recommended when thoracic pain:

  • Is persistent and unexplained

  • Occurs after a fall or accident

  • Is associated with neurological symptoms

  • Does not respond to physiotherapy or medication

  • Raises concern about spinal cord involvement

Because the thoracic spine protects vital neural structures, clarity matters when symptoms do not settle.

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

Timing depends on the care pathway:

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

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

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

How much does a thoracic spine MRI cost in Singapore?

Costs vary by provider and scan details:

  • 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 thoracic spine MRI scans

    • Costs are explained before proceeding, helping patients plan financially

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

In many pathways, patients must:

  • See a doctor at one clinic

  • 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

  • Faster review and smoother care coordination

Can Medisave be used for thoracic 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

This flexibility helps manage unexpected imaging expenses.

What happens after the MRI?

After the MRI:

  • Findings are reviewed alongside symptoms and examination

  • The cause of thoracic pain is explained clearly

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

Accurate imaging helps avoid unnecessary delays or inappropriate treatment.

Key Takeaway

Thoracic spine pain is less common—but when it is persistent or unexplained, MRI often plays a critical role in clarifying 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 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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