Frequently Asked Questions About Back Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Common Misconceptions

Introduction:
Back pain is a common concern for many people in Singapore. At The Pain Relief Clinic, we aim to help individuals better understand back pain, its possible causes, and the importance of accurate diagnosis for effective treatment. Here are answers to common questions people often ask about back pain.

What is back pain?

A:
Back pain refers to discomfort or aching felt in any part of the spine — from the neck down to the lower back. It can range from mild soreness to severe pain that limits movement.

What does back pain feel like?

A:
Back pain can present as a dull ache, sharp or stabbing pain, tightness, or a burning sensation. Some people may also feel pain radiating to other areas like the buttocks or legs.

Who gets back pain?

A:
Back pain can affect anyone — from young adults to the elderly. It is common among office workers, manual laborers, athletes, and people with sedentary lifestyles.

Is my age a factor in back pain?

A:
Yes. Aging can contribute to natural wear and tear of the spine, increasing the risk of back pain. However, younger individuals can also experience back pain due to injuries, posture issues, or muscular strain.

Is there anything else my back pain could be?

A:
Yes. While many cases are due to musculoskeletal issues like muscle strain or disc problems, back pain can sometimes be linked to nerve compression, joint problems, or less commonly, conditions related to internal organs. It is important to have a proper assessment to identify the cause accurately.

What are the common questions about back pain?

A:
People often ask:

  • What is causing my back pain?
  • Will rest or activity help?
  • Do I need an MRI scan?
  • Is surgery necessary for back pain?

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we help address these questions by providing medical consultations, thorough assessments, and access to same-day or next-day MRI scans when appropriate.

What are the myths about back pain?

A:
Some common myths include:

  • Myth: Complete bed rest is always the best treatment.
  • Fact: Staying gently active often supports better recovery.
  • Myth: Surgery is the only solution for serious back pain.
  • Fact: Many cases improve with non-surgical treatments like physiotherapy or targeted therapies.
  • Myth: Back pain will go away on its own.
  • Fact: Some cases do improve, but persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed.

What is lower back pain?

A:
Lower back pain affects the lumbar region, located between the ribcage and pelvis. It is a common reason people seek medical attention and can result from various causes, including muscle strain, disc issues, or joint problems.

What are the common causes of back pain?

A:
Frequent causes include:

  • Muscle or ligament strain
  • Bulging or herniated discs
  • Degenerative disc conditions
  • Spinal arthritis
  • Poor posture
  • Nerve compression (e.g., sciatica)

What are the causes of back pain?

A:
Back pain may result from mechanical strain, injuries, posture-related stress, degenerative spine conditions, or nerve involvement. Accurate diagnosis helps guide appropriate treatment.

What are the symptoms of back pain?

A:
Symptoms may include:

  • Localized aching or soreness
  • Sharp, stabbing pain
  • Pain worsening with certain movements
  • Reduced flexibility or range of motion
  • Numbness or tingling if nerves are affected

What are the symptoms of lower back pain?

A:
Lower back pain symptoms often include:

  • Dull ache or sharp pain in the lower back
  • Muscle tightness or spasms
  • Pain aggravated by bending, lifting, or prolonged sitting
  • Radiating pain to the legs in some cases

What causes low back pain, and what are the most common symptoms?

A:
Low back pain is commonly caused by strain, disc problems, or joint degeneration. The main symptoms are localized pain, stiffness, and sometimes nerve-related symptoms like numbness or tingling in the legs.

Why do I have low back pain?

A:
Low back pain can occur due to multiple factors, such as poor posture, repetitive movements, age-related wear and tear, or acute injuries. At The Pain Relief Clinic, we offer consultations and — when appropriate — MRI scans to help identify the underlying cause and plan suitable treatment options.

Why Consider The Pain Relief Clinic?

  • MRI scans available on the same day or next working day, within the same building
  • MRI reports typically ready within one working day
  • Consultations from $50
  • Shockwave therapy from $180 — affordable and based on condition
  • Orchard Road location: 350 Orchard Road, #10-00 Shaw House, Singapore 238868
  • Appointments via WhatsApp: +65 9068 9605

Conclusion:
Back pain is a common issue that may have many causes. A timely medical assessment can help identify the problem and guide treatment. The Pain Relief Clinic in Orchard Road offers consultations, diagnostic services like MRI, and various treatment options for individuals seeking help for back pain.

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