Low Back Pain: Understanding the Cause and Finding Relief

What is Low Back Pain?

Low back pain is one of the most common health complaints worldwide, affecting millions of people in Singapore, particularly those with sedentary lifestyles, physically demanding jobs, or high-stress careers. Medically, it is usually a result of strain or injury to the muscles, ligaments, discs, or joints in the lower back. However, it can also be a symptom of other underlying conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease.

Symptoms You Might Experience

• Persistent or acute pain in the lower back
• Pain that radiates down the legs (sciatica)
• Stiffness or limited movement, especially after long periods of sitting or standing
• Muscle spasms or tightness in the lower back
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs

Common Causes of Low Back Pain

There are many potential causes of low back pain, including:

• Muscle Strain: Overexertion or poor posture can lead to muscle strain in the lower back, especially from lifting heavy objects or sitting for long periods.
• Herniated Disc: A slipped disc can press on the spinal nerves, causing pain, numbness, or tingling sensations that can radiate down the leg.
• Degenerative Disc Disease: Wear and tear on the discs in the spine can lead to chronic pain and discomfort.
• Spinal Stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal can compress nerves, leading to back pain and potentially more serious symptoms.

Potentially Dangerous Causes of Low Back Pain

While most low back pain is not serious, it can sometimes be a sign of more severe conditions, such as:

• Spinal Tumors: These can cause severe pain and may require urgent medical intervention.
• Infections: Spinal infections or discitis can lead to severe pain, fever, and swelling.
• Fractures: Compression fractures in the vertebrae, often caused by osteoporosis, can cause sudden and intense pain.

The Importance of Imaging for Accurate Diagnosis

Without imaging techniques like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds, pinpointing the exact cause of low back pain can be difficult. A clinical examination alone may not uncover more serious conditions, such as tumors or infections, which require immediate attention. Imaging helps ensure an accurate diagnosis and provides a clear path for treatment.

Why Without Imaging, Treatments May Not Work

Without proper imaging, treatments like painkillers, physiotherapy, or massage are often generic and may not address the true cause of your pain. This can lead to ineffective relief and unnecessary suffering. Imaging allows us to accurately diagnose the problem and ensure you receive the most effective treatment.

At The Pain Relief Clinic, we offer quick, affordable scans that can confirm your diagnosis in under one working day. We also provide a $50 second opinion consultation to explore other treatment options if previous ones haven’t worked.

Why Choose Us?

• Non-invasive, targeted treatments that address the root cause of your pain
• Fast, affordable imaging for clear diagnosis
• Medisave and insurance-friendly treatment options for eligible patients

Visit Us If You Are:

• Fed up with ineffective treatments or misdiagnosis
• Looking for a faster, more accurate diagnosis through imaging
• Seeking a second opinion before opting for surgery