Suspected Spinal Stenosis in Singapore: 8 Situations Where an MRI Is Commonly Needed

Spinal Stenosis Often Shows Up When You Start Walking

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spinal canal or nerve exit spaces narrow, commonly in the lower back. Many patients only notice symptoms when they walk or stand for a period of time. Because X-rays cannot show the degree of nerve compression, MRI is often required to confirm the diagnosis.

Here are the most common situations where patients in Singapore are advised to undergo MRI for suspected spinal stenosis.

1. Leg Pain or Heaviness After Walking Short Distances

If you notice:

• Leg pain, heaviness, or tightness after walking

• Symptoms that force you to stop and rest

MRI helps assess whether narrowing of the spinal canal is compressing nerves during activity.

2. Symptoms That Improve When Sitting or Bending Forward

Relief when:

• Sitting down

• Leaning forward on a trolley or railing

is a classic feature of spinal stenosis. MRI helps confirm where the narrowing is occurring.

3. Progressive Reduction in Walking Distance

When your walking tolerance:

• Gradually shortens over time

• Declines despite exercise or physiotherapy

MRI is often needed to evaluate severity and progression of spinal narrowing.

4. Numbness or Tingling in the Legs

Pins and needles, altered sensation, or numbness in one or both legs suggest nerve involvement, which MRI can visualise clearly.

5. Weakness or Unsteadiness When Walking

Difficulty with:

• Leg strength

• Balance

• Stability

raises concern about significant nerve compression, where MRI clarity becomes important for safe planning.

6. Normal X-rays but Ongoing Walking-Related Symptoms

X-rays may show degeneration but cannot determine:

• How much the canal is narrowed

• Whether nerves are compressed

MRI provides a functional anatomical view of the spinal canal and nerve exits.

7. Symptoms Not Improving Despite Conservative Treatment

If medication or physiotherapy:

• Does not improve walking ability

• Only provides temporary relief

MRI helps avoid prolonged trial-and-error by identifying whether stenosis is the limiting factor.

8. When Treatment Decisions Depend on Knowing Severity and Level

MRI is often required before:

• Deciding on advanced non-invasive treatments

• Specialist referral

• Long-term mobility planning

Clear imaging helps prevent delays and unnecessary interventions.

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

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

How Much Does a Spinal Stenosis MRI Cost?

• Public hospitals:
  Subsidised and lower out-of-pocket cost, 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, reducing financial 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 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

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

Spinal stenosis often limits walking and independence. MRI is the most reliable way to confirm the diagnosis and guide next steps.

For patients who want:

• Faster clarity

• Transparent pricing

• Minimal logistical hassle

• Flexible payment options

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