Lower back pain is prevalent, affecting up to 80% of people at some point [1]. While it can be a frustrating experience, the good news is that lower back pain often resolves independently with little time and self-care. Here at Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic, we understand the impact back pain can have on your daily life. These are some common causes of lower back pain, providing strategies for at-home relief and professional treatment options.
Common Causes of Lower Back Pain
- Muscle and Ligament Strain: This is the most frequent culprit, often caused by improper lifting techniques, overuse, or sudden movements.
- Disc Injuries: The discs between your vertebrae can herniate (bulge) or rupture, putting pressure on nerves and causing pain.
- Sciatica: This radiating pain down the leg results from irritation to the sciatic nerve, often caused by a herniated disc.
- Arthritis: Degenerative changes in the spine can lead to inflammation and pain.
- Poor Posture: Slouching or hunching can strain the muscles and ligaments in your back.
Strategies for Relief at Home
- Rest: Allow your back time to heal, but avoid complete inactivity, which can stiffen muscles [2].
- Application of Heat/Ice: Apply heat to increase blood flow and promote healing in the later stages of pain. Use ice for acute pain and inflammation [2].
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Stretching and gentle exercise: Regular stretching and low-impact exercises like walking or swimming can improve flexibility and strengthen the core muscles that support your back [2].
When to Seek Professional Treatment:
If your back pain is severe, persists for more than a few weeks, or is accompanied by other symptoms like numbness, weakness, or fever, it’s crucial to seek professional medical attention. Here at Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic, our experienced team can diagnose the cause of your pain and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. This may include:
- Physical therapy: A personalised program of exercises and stretches can strengthen your core, improve flexibility, and promote healing.
- Medication: Prescription pain relievers, muscle relaxants, or anti-inflammatory drugs may be needed.
- Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation around irritated nerves.
- Minimally invasive procedures: In some cases, minimally invasive procedures like discography or vertebroplasty may be recommended.
- Surgery: While rare for lower back pain, surgery might be necessary for severe cases like spinal stenosis or a herniated disc causing nerve damage.
Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic
At Singapore Sports and Orthopaedic Clinic, we are committed to providing comprehensive care for all your back pain needs. Our skilled physicians will work with you to develop a personalised treatment plan that gets you back to living an active, pain-free life. If you are experiencing lower back pain, don’t hesitate to contact us for an appointment.
Remember: This information is intended for general knowledge only and should not be a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified physician to diagnose and treat your specific condition.
Resources:
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Low Back Pain [1]: This website provides a wealth of information on low back pain, including causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options.
- Singapore Ministry of Health – Back Pain [2]: This website offers self-care tips for managing back pain at home.
