Difficulty Walking, Poor Balance, or Frequent Falls: When an MRI Scan of the Spine Is Urgent

FAQ: MRI Scans for Suspected Spinal Cord Compression

What does difficulty walking or balance problems indicate?

Difficulty walking, unsteadiness, or frequent falls suggest that the spinal cord may be compressed, rather than a simple muscle or joint problem.

Common symptoms include:

  • Feeling unsteady on your feet
  • Shuffling or stiff walking
  • Frequent tripping or falling
  • Difficulty with stairs
  • Poor coordination
  • Clumsiness in hands along with gait changes

These symptoms should always be taken seriously.

What is spinal cord compression?

Spinal cord compression occurs when structures such as:

  • Herniated discs
  • Bone spurs
  • Thickened ligaments
  • Tumours
  • Infection
  • Degenerative changes

press on the spinal cord, disrupting normal nerve signals between the brain and body.

This commonly occurs in the cervical (neck) or thoracic (upper back) spine.

Why is an MRI scan urgently recommended in these situations?

MRI is one of the most accurate imaging modalities currently available for evaluating the spinal cord.

MRI allows doctors to:

  • Visualise spinal cord compression directly
  • Identify the cause and level of compression
  • Assess severity and risk of permanent damage
  • Detect spinal cord signal changes indicating injury
  • Guide urgent treatment decisions

X-rays and CT scans cannot adequately assess the spinal cord itself.

Can spinal cord compression be diagnosed without MRI?

Clinical examination can detect abnormal reflexes or coordination issues, but no doctor—regardless of experience—can confirm or safely exclude spinal cord compression without imaging.

MRI provides objective and definitive evidence, which is critical in these cases.

Why is early diagnosis so important?

Delayed diagnosis of spinal cord compression may lead to:

  • Progressive weakness
  • Permanent loss of balance
  • Irreversible nerve damage
  • Loss of independence

Early MRI significantly improves the chance of recovery by enabling timely intervention.

When should MRI be considered urgent for walking or balance problems?

Based on current standards of care, MRI should be arranged urgently when:

  • Walking becomes progressively difficult
  • Balance problems worsen
  • Falls occur without clear explanation
  • Hand coordination issues accompany gait changes
  • Symptoms are evolving or worsening

MRI helps determine whether immediate treatment is required.

Is MRI considered standard of care for suspected spinal cord compression?

Yes. MRI is universally regarded as the gold-standard imaging modality for suspected spinal cord compression.

Is MRI safe in urgent neurological situations?

Yes. MRI scans:

  • Do not involve ionising radiation
  • Are non-invasive
  • Are safe when standard screening is performed

Why do patients delay MRI scans despite these symptoms?

The most common reasons include:

  • Underestimating symptom seriousness
  • Concern about cost
  • Long waiting times at some facilities

Delays can significantly worsen outcomes.

How does The Pain Relief Clinic support urgent spine MRI scans?

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we aim to:

  • Arrange MRI scans under $1000
  • Arrange MRI scans within 1 working day

This ensures timely diagnosis when neurological function is at risk.

Can insurance help cover urgent spine MRI scans?

MRI scans may be claimable under:

  • Personal accident insurance
  • Travel insurance
  • Company insurance
  • Company flexi-benefits
  • Hospitalisation plans

Coverage depends on policy terms.

Can Medisave be used for urgent spine MRI scans?

Yes. Medisave can be used to offset part of the cost.

  • Current Medisave withdrawal limit: $300
  • From 1 January 2026, this will increase to $600
  • Medisave can potentially cover more than half the cost of an MRI scan

What should you do if walking or balance problems appear?

Difficulty walking or frequent falls should never be ignored. Obtaining an accurate diagnosis urgently can prevent permanent disability.

For more information or to arrange an MRI scan, contact The Pain Relief Clinic via WhatsApp at +65 9068 9605.

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