Imaging

Clear Diagnosis. No Guesswork.

A good clinical history and careful medical examination will often lead to an accurate diagnosis. However, in some situations, imaging is necessary—to confirm the diagnosis and, more importantly, to rule out more serious or dangerous conditions.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we use imaging selectively and purposefully. When indicated, our on-site imaging capabilities allow conditions to be investigated promptly, conveniently, and cost-effectively, so treatment is not delayed unnecessarily.

On-Site, Same-Day Imaging

We are able to arrange:

• X-rays
• Ultrasound scans
• CT scans
• MRI scans

Most scans can be performed on the same day, with same-day reports and highly competitive pricing, giving patients reassurance and clarity without long waiting times.

X-Rays

The First Step When Pain Persists

A common example is knee pain.

Mild knee pain may improve with simple treatments. However, if there is no clear improvement within 2 weeks, it is important to ask why.

Knee pain can sometimes be caused by serious conditions such as:

• Stress fractures
• Knee infections
• Tumours or cancer

If knee pain is persistent, severe, worsening, or not improving despite treatment, an X-ray is the basic and recommended first scan.

Delayed diagnosis can allow some conditions to deteriorate—sometimes to the point where surgery becomes unavoidable.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, the cost of a knee X-ray is $50.

Private MRI Scans in Singapore

Gold Standard Imaging for Joint and Spine Problems

An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan has revolutionised the diagnosis and management of joint and spine pain.

It is often considered the single best imaging modality for:

• Identifying the precise cause of pain
• Detecting soft tissue, disc, nerve, ligament, and cartilage problems
• Planning appropriate and targeted treatment

For many joint and spine conditions, MRI remains the gold standard investigation.

Why Many People Delay MRI Scans

The most common reason patients—and sometimes even doctors—hesitate to request an MRI is cost.

In reality, there are often several ways to reduce the cash outlay.

3 Ways to Reduce Your MRI Costs

1. Polyclinic Referral
   Singaporean patients may visit a polyclinic for referral to a restructured hospital. If an MRI is ordered, government subsidies can significantly reduce the cost.
2. Insurance Coverage
   Many insurance plans cover MRI scans, including:
   • Company health insurance
   • Personal accident insurance
   • Travel insurance
   • Integrated Shield Plans (often purchased using Medisave)
3. Medisave Claims
   Depending on your condition, it is possible to claim up to $600 from Medisave for MRI scans—often covering more than half the cost.

Why Early MRI Matters

Delaying an MRI when it is clearly indicated can:

• Allow conditions to worsen
• Increase the likelihood of surgery
• Delay effective treatment
• Prolong pain and disability
• Affect work, daily function, and quality of life

In many cases, an early and accurate diagnosis allows timely, non-surgical treatment.

MRI Availability and Cost

• Private MRI scans can be arranged within 1 working day
• Typical cost: $950 to $1,000
• MRI scans for certain conditions (e.g. headaches) may be even cheaper

A Practical, Patient-Focused Approach

At The Pain Relief Clinic, imaging is not ordered routinely—it is ordered with purpose.

Every scan is interpreted in the context of:

• Your symptoms
• Clinical examination findings
• Functional limitations

The goal is simple:
accurate diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and effective pain relief—without unnecessary surgery whenever possible.