Could Your Back Pain Be a Sign of a Spine Problem?
- Apr 3
- 3 min read
Updated: May 21
What You Need to Know about Back Pain and Spinal Health
Why Is Back Pain Increasing?
Back pain is one of the most common health complaints today, affecting people of all ages. While aging is a natural factor, modern lifestyle habits have significantly contributed to the rise in chronic back pain and spinal issues.
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for back pain is crucial for effective pain management and long-term spinal health.
Common Causes of Back Pain
Accidents and Injuries
Though less frequent today, car accidents and trauma can damage the spine, leading to slipped discs and chronic back pain.
Sports-Related Back Injuries
Many people experience back pain from sports activities performed without proper training or warm-up exercises. High-risk sports include:
Road running (impact on the spine)
Badminton and tennis (sudden jerking movements)
Soccer and rugby (high-impact collisions)
Weight training (lifting with poor posture)
Everyday Activities and Poor Movement Habits
Many people injure their backs during routine tasks, such as:
Cleaning the house
Lifting heavy objects incorrectly
Carrying luggage while traveling
These small, repetitive movements can strain the spine and lead to long-term pain and mobility issues.
What Is a Slipped Disc?
A slipped disc occurs when the soft cushion-like disc between the spine bones (vertebrae) moves out of its normal position. This can put pressure on the spinal nerves, leading to pain and nerve-related symptoms.
Stages of Disc Slippage
A slipped disc progresses through different stages, from mild to severe:
Bulging Disc
The disc swells slightly.
Protrusion
The disc extends further but remains intact.
Extrusion
The disc begins to break away from its normal position.
Sequestration
A piece of the disc ruptures completely and presses on the spinal nerves.
As the pressure builds up on the nerves, it can cause a range of symptoms depending on the affected spinal region.
Signs That Your Back Pain May Be a Spine Problem
When a disc presses on the spinal nerves, it can cause pain in different parts of the body, depending on the location of the issue:
Neck pain
If the affected disc is in the cervical spine.
Back pain
If the affected disc is in the lumbar spine.
Arm pain and weakness
If the compressed nerve affects the upper limbs.
Leg pain (sciatica)
If the compressed nerve affects the lower spine.
Severe cases can cause numbness, tingling, or even loss of bladder and bowel control, which require immediate medical attention.
Effective Back Pain Treatment & Pain Management
Non-Surgical Approaches
Many cases of chronic back pain and slipped discs can be managed with conservative treatments, including:
Physical therapy
Strengthens the back muscles and improves flexibility.
Pain management techniques
Medications, muscle relaxants, and non-invasive treatments.
Lifestyle modifications
Correcting posture and reducing heavy lifting.
Minimally Invasive & Surgical Treatments
For severe cases, minimally invasive spine procedures may be required, such as:
Laser spine therapy
Reduces nerve pressure without surgery.
Microdiscectomy
Removes the damaged disc portion pressing on nerves.
Disc replacement surgery
Replaces a severely damaged disc with an artificial one.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Back Pain
⚠ Pain that does not improve with rest or medication
⚠ Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
⚠ Weakness in the limbs
⚠ Difficulty walking or standing for long periods
⚠ Loss of bladder or bowel control (urgent medical attention needed)
If the nerve is compressed severely or for too long, recovery may be incomplete even after surgery. Early diagnosis and intervention are essential for preventing long-term damage.
Preventing Chronic Back Pain
To reduce the risk of developing chronic back pain, I recommend:
Maintaining good posture
Avoid slouching and keep your screen at eye level.
Regular physical therapy exercises
Strengthen core muscles to support the spine.
Using ergonomic workstations
Adjust chair height, monitor position, and desk setup.
Taking frequent breaks
Avoid prolonged sitting and repetitive movements.
Stretching exercises
Improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
Specialist Back Pain Treatment at Singapore Brain Spine Centre
At Singapore Brain Spine Centre, we provide:
Comprehensive back pain assessments
Advanced imaging to diagnose spinal conditions
Minimally invasive and non-surgical treatment options
Struggling with Chronic Back Pain? Get Expert Help Today
If you experience persistent back pain, leg pain, or nerve-related symptoms, it’s important to seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent further complications.
Book a consultation today at Singapore Brain Spine Centre and take the first step toward pain relief and recovery.
