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