Sciatica in Singapore: 8 Common Situations Where an MRI Is Usually Needed

Sciatica Is a Symptom — MRI Helps Find the Cause

Sciatica refers to pain that travels from the lower back down the buttock and leg. While it is often blamed on a slipped disc, there are multiple possible causes, and MRI is usually required to identify where and why the nerve is being compressed.

Below are the most common scenarios where patients in Singapore end up needing an MRI for sciatica.

1. Leg Pain That Is Worse Than Back Pain

When leg pain:

• Shoots down the thigh or calf

• Feels sharp, burning, or electric

• Is more severe than the back pain itself

MRI helps determine whether a disc, bone, or narrowed canal is pressing on the nerve.

2. Persistent Sciatic Pain Lasting More Than a Few Weeks

If sciatica:

• Persists beyond 4–6 weeks

• Keeps recurring

• Does not settle with rest or medication

MRI is often used to look for ongoing nerve irritation rather than continuing trial-and-error treatment.

3. Numbness or Tingling in the Leg or Foot

Symptoms such as:

• Pins and needles

• Reduced sensation

• Altered feeling in the foot or toes

suggest nerve involvement, which MRI can localise precisely.

4. Weakness in the Leg or Foot

Difficulty:

• Lifting the foot

• Standing on toes or heels

• Maintaining leg strength

raises concern about significant nerve compression, where imaging clarity becomes important.

5. Normal X-ray but Ongoing Sciatic Symptoms

X-rays may look normal even when:

• A disc is compressing a nerve

• There is soft tissue or foraminal narrowing

MRI provides detailed views of nerves, discs, and surrounding structures that X-rays cannot show.

6. Sciatica After a Fall or Sudden Movement

A fall, sudden twist, or lifting injury can:

• Trigger disc herniation

• Worsen an existing spinal issue

MRI helps assess disc injury, inflammation, and nerve contact, especially when symptoms worsen days later.

7. Pain Not Improving Despite Physiotherapy

If physiotherapy:

• Only provides short-term relief

• Does not improve walking or function

MRI helps explain why recovery has plateaued and whether the nerve remains compressed.

8. When Treatment Decisions Depend on Knowing the Exact Cause

MRI is commonly required before:

• Targeted non-invasive treatments

• Specialist referral

• Deciding whether conservative care is still appropriate

Clear imaging helps avoid delays, unnecessary procedures, and wasted costs.

How Long Does It Take to Get an MRI for Sciatica in Singapore?

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

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

At The Pain Relief Clinic, MRI scans for sciatica can usually be arranged within one working day, subject to assessment.

How Much Does an MRI for Sciatica Cost?

• Public hospitals:
  Subsidised and lower cost, but with 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, reducing uncertainty

Do You Need to Travel to Another Location for the MRI?

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 care flow

Payment Options to Know About

Patients at The Pain Relief Clinic may access:

• Medisave usage (subject to outpatient diagnostic limits)

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

• Cashless arrangements where applicable

• Interest-free instalment plans

• Cash and card payments

Quick Comparison

Final Takeaway

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

For patients who want:

• Fast clarity

• Transparent pricing

• Minimal logistical hassle

• Flexible payment options

The Pain Relief Clinic offers a practical MRI pathway suited to real-world needs in Singapore.