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