Back Pain Relief in Singapore: Symptoms, Treatments, and When to Consult a Doctor in Singapore

If you’re experiencing back problems in Singapore, you’re not alone! Back pain is an all too common problem that can cause a major disruption in your life. The good news is that you don’t have to suffer. To get started on the journey to feeling like your best self again, let’s explore all of the knowledge and resources that you need to navigate back pain.

For everything that you need to know to navigate the common causes of pain, different types of back pain, and figure out when to seek professional help, it’s time to do your homework. From non-surgical approaches to physiotherapy and rehabilitation, this guide will walk you through the healing process step by step.

Whether you’re dealing with a recent injury, chronic discomfort, or simply want to learn more about back pain prevention, this guide is your roadmap to regaining mobility and reclaiming your well-being.

Common Causes of Back Pain

Back pain affects most people at some point in their life. While we all share a similar experience, there are a wide variety of causes. Here are some of the most common causes of back pain:

• Muscle or ligament strain: This is the most common cause of back pain. It can happen because of improper lifting, poor posture, or simple overuse.

• Spinal disc problems: Discs cushion the vertebrae in your spine and when you have a herniated (bulging or ruptured) disc, it can press on nerves and cause pain, numbness, or weakness.

• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis (often called wear-and-tear arthritis) and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints in your spine and cause pain and stiffness.

• Osteoporosis: This condition weakens bones and makes them more susceptible to fractures in the spine.

• Poor posture: Slouching or hunching over for long periods can strain your back muscles and ligaments.

• Injury: A fall, accident, or sports injury can damage the bones, muscles, ligaments, or discs in your back.

• Spinal stenosis: This narrowing of the spinal canal can put pressure on your spinal cord and nerves which causes pain, numbness, and weakness.

It’s important to note that these are only a few of the potential causes of back pain and it’s impossible to guess the exact causes of your pain without a proper examination. If you’re experiencing back pain, see a back pain specialist to get a diagnosis.

Identifying Different Types of Back Pain

Not all back pain is the same. Different types of back pain can manifest in different ways, which helps us better understand their underlying causes. Here’s a look at some common types:

• Mechanical Pain (Axial Pain): This is the most frequently experienced type of back pain and it’s often described as dull, achy, or stiff. It’s usually linked to muscle strain, ligament sprain, or irritation of the facet joint (which are the tiny joints between vertebrae). Things like lifting, bending, or twisting can worsen this pain, while rest and pain relievers often provide relief.
• Referred Pain: This kind of pain actually starts in one area but is felt elsewhere. For example, a herniated disc in the lower back might cause radiating pain down your leg. Referred pain can be sharp, burning, or numb, depending on the affected nerve.
• Radicular Pain: This intense, shooting pain often follows a nerve pathway. It’s a telltale sign of nerve compression and is often caused by a herniated disc or spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal). Weakness, tingling, or numbness may accompany the pain.
• Inflammatory Pain: This less common type of back pain is worse at night and improves with movement. It might be a sign of an inflammatory condition like ankylosing spondylitis, which affects the spine and joints.

While these categories offer a starting point, there are a few factors to consider. To further classify your back pain, a spine doctor or specialist will also ask you about the following:

• Location: Where you feel the pain can provide clues. Lower back pain is the most common issue but upper back pain can also be caused by strains, poor posture, or even stress.
• Onset: Sudden pain after an injury suggests a strain or sprain while pain that gradually gets worse might be a sign of arthritis or disc problems.
• Severity and Duration: Acute pain might resolve with rest, while chronic back pain calls for a doctor’s visit.

When Back Pain Is an Emergency

Back pain, while common, doesn’t usually warrant an emergency trip to see a doctor. However, there are certain situations where back pain can signal a more serious medical emergency. Here’s when back pain is an emergency:

• Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control: This is a critical sign that can indicate nerve damage due to a severe spinal cord injury or compression.
• Sudden, Severe Pain: Intense pain that appears all of a sudden, especially after an accident or trauma, could be a sign of a spinal fracture, disc herniation, or other serious injury.
• Fever or Chills: These symptoms combined with back pain might be a sign of an infection in your spine.
• Difficulty Walking or Standing: This could indicate nerve damage or a compressed spinal cord.
• Loss of Feeling or Numbness: Numbness or weakness in the legs, especially if it develops suddenly, can be a sign of nerve compression.
• Pain that Worsens When Lying Down: Back pain that intensifies when lying down, especially at night, can be associated with a serious condition called cauda equina syndrome, which is something that you don’t want to ignore.
• Redness, Swelling, or Warmth at the Pain Site: This could be a sign of an infection in the spine or surrounding tissues.
• History of Cancer: If you have a history of cancer, back pain could indicate the spread of cancer to the bones or spine.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care. Don’t hesitate to call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.

When to Consult a Doctor for Back Pain

While back pain is common and not all cases of it are an emergency, there are a few telltale signs that you need to see a doctor.

• Severity and Duration: If your back pain is severe and unrelenting, especially for more than a few days, you need a doctor to diagnose the cause and recommend appropriate treatment.

• Worsening Pain: Back pain that gets worse with specific movements, like bending or twisting, could be a sign of a muscle strain or other issue that you don’t want to ignore.

• Radiating Pain: Pain radiating down your leg or other areas could be a sign that you have nerve compression.

• Loss of Sleep: Pain that disrupts your sleep significantly is a sign of a problem that must be addressed.

• Limited Mobility: Back pain that significantly restricts your daily activities, like walking or standing, warrants you to explore back pain treatment options by specialist doctors.

Remember, this isn’t an exhaustive list. If you’re concerned about your back pain, consult a doctor for a diagnosis and a personalised treatment plan to get you back on track.

Treatments for Back Pain in Singapore

Back pain can disrupt your life but fortunately, here in Singapore, we have a full range of treatment options available. Here are some options that your doctor may recommend.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Back Pain

• Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or paracetamol can provide quick pain relief. For more severe pain or inflammation, your doctor might prescribe stronger medications.
• Rest: While prolonged bed rest isn’t recommended, taking a break from strenuous activities gives your back a chance to heal.
• Physical Therapy: A customised exercise programme by a physiotherapist will strengthen your core muscles, improve your flexibility, and promote proper posture, all of which are crucial for preventing back pain and stopping it from getting worse.
• Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat relaxes muscles and eases stiffness, while ice reduces inflammation and pain.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Maintaining a healthy weight, practising good posture, and using proper lifting techniques can significantly reduce stress on your back
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around painful areas.

Surgical Treatment Options

While surgery is typically considered a last resort, it can be an option for severe and persistent back pain that doesn’t respond to other treatments. Here are some common surgical procedures:

• Disc Surgery: This involves removing a herniated disc or repairing a torn disc.

• Spinal Fusion: This procedure aims to stabilise vertebrae by fusing them together with bone grafts or implants.

• Laminectomy: This surgery involves removing a portion of the vertebral bone to create more space for the spinal cord and nerves.

• Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery: Advancements in technology allow for smaller incisions and faster recovery times.

Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation

Beyond medication and rest, physiotherapy is a key aspect of both non-surgical and post-surgical back pain treatment. Physical therapy tackles the root of the problem by strengthening your core and back muscles. It boosts your flexibility and range of motion while correcting your posture for better spinal alignment and teaching you proper lifting techniques to prevent future injury. It is also an important tool for developing pain management strategies to help you cope with discomfort.

Alternative Therapies for Back Pain Relief

Beyond traditional medicine, some alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage may offer additional comfort for back pain. Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles at specific points in the body to promote healing and reduce pain while massage therapy can help relax your muscles and improve blood flow.

While alternative medicine for back pain can be helpful, consulting a back pain specialist is crucial to diagnose the cause of your back pain and discuss the most suitable treatment options for you.

How to Choose the Right Specialist

Back pain can be debilitating, and navigating the healthcare system to find the right specialist can feel overwhelming. Here are a few insights that’ll help guide your journey.

Matching Specialist to Diagnosis

The type of back pain specialist that you need depends on the cause of your back pain.

• Musculoskeletal Issues: For muscle strains, ligament sprains, or disc problems, an orthopaedic surgeon specialising in spine care is a good starting point.

• Arthritis: A rheumatologist focuses on diagnosing and managing arthritis-related back pain.

• Nerve Issues: If nerve compression is suspected, a neurosurgeon may be necessary for diagnosis and potential surgery.

Researching Qualifications and Reputation

Once you have a general idea of the specialist type that you need, it is important to research their qualifications and experience. Look for board certification in their speciality and experience treating your specific condition. Online reviews can offer valuable insights into a specialist’s communication style, bedside manner, and patient satisfaction.

Location, Hospital Affiliation, and Treatment Options

Choose a specialist conveniently located and affiliated with a hospital that suits your insurance coverage and preferences. During your initial consultation, be sure to discuss the treatment options the specialist recommends and their approach to managing your pain.

Other Considerations When Choosing a Back Pain Specialist

Don’t hesitate to ask questions to ensure you understand the diagnosis, treatment plan, and potential risks and benefits of any procedures. Bring relevant medical records like X-rays, MRIs, or previous medical reports to aid the specialist in understanding your medical history.

Back Pain Treatment Cost in Singapore

The cost of back pain treatment in Singapore can vary depending on the chosen treatment and healthcare setting. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Treatment Type	Cost Range	Description
Physiotherapy Single Session	$180/hr	Individual physiotherapy session
Physiotherapy Package Deal	S$670	Package of four physiotherapy sessions
Chiropractor Consultation	$80/session	Initial consultation with a chiropractor
Chiropractor Spinal Manipulation	Additional Costs	Varies depending on specific treatment required
Non-Surgical Treatments	Varies	Includes medications, physiotherapy, and injections (e.g. epidural steroid injection around $150 to $300 per session)
Surgical Treatments	$25,000 to $30,000	More invasive procedures like spinal fusion surgery (private hospital)
Private Clinics	Generally Higher	May include advanced or specialised procedures
Public Hospitals	More Affordable	Subsidies are available for residents, and cost depends on the procedure and ward class

Editor’s Choice: Back Pain Specialists in Singapore

Finding the right back pain specialist or doctor is key to regaining mobility and overall well-being. Fortunately, Singapore has a well-respected healthcare system with leading orthopaedic spine specialists who are renowned for their expertise and dedication to patient care.