Tailbone (Coccyx) Pain in Singapore: 8 Situations Where an MRI Is Commonly Needed

Tailbone Pain Is Small in Area—but Big in Impact

Tailbone (coccyx) pain can be deceptively disruptive. Even short periods of sitting can become uncomfortable, and recovery is often slow when the underlying cause isn’t clear. Because many coccyx problems involve soft tissue or subtle bone injury, MRI is often required when symptoms persist.

Below are the most common scenarios where patients in Singapore undergo MRI for tailbone pain.

1. Tailbone Pain That Persists Beyond a Few Weeks

If coccyx pain:

• Persists beyond 4–6 weeks

• Does not steadily improve

• Interferes with sitting, driving, or desk work

MRI is commonly used to look for ongoing inflammation, soft-tissue injury, or subtle bone changes.

2. Pain That Started After a Fall or Direct Impact

A fall onto the buttocks may:

• Injure the coccyx

• Cause subtle fractures or bruising

MRI helps detect bone marrow changes and soft-tissue injury that may not appear on X-rays.

3. Severe Sitting Pain With Normal X-rays

X-rays may look normal even when:

• There is inflammation around the coccyx

• Ligaments or surrounding tissues are injured

MRI provides a more complete picture of non-bony pain sources.

4. Pain That Worsens When Sitting or Leaning Back

Pain that:

• Intensifies when sitting

• Improves when standing or lying down

often points to coccygeal joint or soft-tissue involvement, which MRI can evaluate more accurately.

5. Tailbone Pain Not Improving Despite Physiotherapy

If physiotherapy:

• Offers only temporary relief

• Does not allow comfortable sitting

MRI helps explain why recovery has plateaued, avoiding prolonged trial-and-error care.

6. Pain Affecting Work, Sleep, or Daily Activities

When coccyx pain:

• Disrupts desk work

• Limits driving or commuting

• Affects sleep

MRI helps identify whether there is a structural reason the pain continues.

7. Recurrent Tailbone Pain Without a Clear Cause

Repeated episodes of tailbone pain may indicate:

• Chronic inflammation

• Recurrent soft-tissue strain

MRI provides a baseline assessment to guide longer-term management.

8. When Treatment Decisions Depend on Knowing the Exact Cause

MRI is often needed before:

• Targeted non-invasive treatments

• Specialist referral

• Deciding whether conservative care remains appropriate

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

How Long Does It Take to Get an MRI for Tailbone Pain 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 typically arranged much faster.

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

How Much Does an MRI for Coccyx Pain 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 coccyx or lower 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 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

Tailbone pain may involve a small area, but it can significantly affect daily life. When symptoms persist or X-rays do not explain the pain, MRI often provides the missing clarity.

For patients who want:

• Faster answers

• Transparent pricing

• Minimal logistical hassle

• Flexible payment options

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