Lower back pain is one of the most common reasons why people seek medical attention, and is also a primary cause of work-related disability. It usually refers to pain or discomfort resulting from injury or illness affecting the muscles, ligaments, bones and joints of the lower back. Regardless of the cause or severity, lower back pain should always be assessed by a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Other causes of lower back pain include osteoarthritis, resulting from wear and tear of the joints; a deformity that changes the shape and curve of the spinal column; as well as muscle and tendon strains caused by overstretching the back muscles.
While both men and women experience lower back pain, women are found to be more susceptible to chronic back pain. This is especially true for those who are pregnant, post-menopausal or above 50 years old. The most common causes of lower back pain in women are:
Treatment for lower back pain can range from at-home treatment, medications to surgery, depending on the patient’s diagnosis. Treatment for lower back pain in Singapore includes:
Anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve inflamed nerves or muscles. If symptoms persist, the doctor may recommend alternative drugs like antiseizure, pain relievers, prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Personalised physiotherapy exercises will help improve strength and mobility, as well as reduce pain.
Serious cases may require lower back surgery, especially if other treatments are not enough to relieve the pain. Types of lower back pain surgery in Singapore include:
This includes muscle relaxants, back braces and epidural steroid or nerve root injections.
Dr Chua Soo Yong specialises in surgical and non-surgical lower back pain treatment in Singapore, and is dedicated to providing effective, compassionate and holistic care to all patients. Call 6262 0555 for more information.
Dr Chua is an Orthopaedic and Spine Surgeon with over 20 years of experience treating back and neck issues, which are commonly associated with the spine.
He is particularly passionate about treating conditions of the spine not only because it relieves pain, but because it also has the potential to reverse paralysis to a certain extent, which means a great deal to patients.
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