When You Should Not Delay an MRI Scan for Sacrum or Tailbone Pain

FAQ: When You Should Not Delay an MRI Scan for Sacrum or Tailbone Pain

Why is timely MRI important for sacrum or tailbone pain?

The sacrum and coccyx are complex anatomical regions with bones, joints, ligaments, soft tissues, and nearby nerves. Pain in this area can arise from multiple sources, many of which are not visible on X-rays or detectable through physical examination alone. Delaying imaging may allow underlying problems to persist untreated.

What symptoms suggest MRI should not be delayed?

MRI should not be delayed if:

• Pain persists despite conservative treatment
• Pain follows a fall, injury, or repetitive strain
• Sitting becomes increasingly painful or intolerable
• Swelling, inflammation, numbness, or tingling is present
• Previous treatments or procedures have failed
• An injection or procedure is being planned

Based on modern medical technology and current standard of care, MRI should be considered in this scenario.

Why can’t doctors rely on examination alone?

MRI is one of the most accurate imaging modalities currently available.
Without accurate imaging, no doctor—regardless of experience—can reliably make a precise diagnosis.
Without accurate diagnosis, treatment plans become generic, presumptive, and often fail.
Many failed treatments are due to trial-and-error care without imaging.

Clinical assessment provides valuable information, but it cannot visualise internal structures such as bone marrow, ligaments, or soft tissue pathology in sufficient detail.

What problems can MRI help identify early?

MRI can help detect:

• Occult fractures or stress injuries
• Ligament or soft tissue damage
• Inflammatory or degenerative changes
• Nerve-related causes of pain
• Structural issues that guide targeted treatment

MRI is safe and does NOT involve ionising radiation.

Isn’t it reasonable to “wait and see”?

Short-term observation may be appropriate for mild symptoms. However, prolonged waiting when pain persists often leads to delayed diagnosis, unnecessary treatments, and longer recovery times.

I’m worried about cost and long waiting times.

Cost concerns and delays are common reasons patients postpone MRI. Unfortunately, delayed imaging frequently results in repeated consultations, ineffective therapies, and prolonged discomfort—often costing more in the long run.

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Why Consider MRI at The Pain Relief Clinic?

The Pain Relief Clinic is centrally located at 350 Orchard Road, Shaw House, just a 5-minute walk from Orchard MRT, with convenient parking and immediately outside ERP.

Patients benefit from:

• MRI machine on-site
• Doctor can assess and directly arrange MRI immediately
• No need to visit a separate imaging centre
• No need to find another doctor just for an MRI referral
• Doctor has been helping patients with spine and joint problems since 2007 (18 years)
• Focus on non-invasive, technology-powered treatments

MRI arrangements aim to be:

• Under $1000
• Within 1 working day

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Can Insurance or Medisave Help Cover MRI Costs?

MRI scans may be covered by:

• Personal accident insurance
• Travel insurance
• Company insurance
• Company flexi-benefits
• Hospitalisation plans (policy-dependent)
• Medisave

Medisave limits:

• Current: $300
• From 1 Jan 2026: $600

Medisave can potentially cover more than half the MRI cost, depending on policy eligibility.

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Key Takeaway

Persistent sacrum or tailbone pain deserves proper evaluation. Delaying MRI may delay diagnosis, prolong symptoms, and reduce the effectiveness of treatment. Timely imaging supports accurate diagnosis and appropriate care planning.

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