Understanding Lower Back Pain and Exploring Holistic Treatment Options
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- Understanding Lower Back Pain and Exploring Holistic Treatment Options
Lower back pain is an issue which is the result of a complex set of factors like lifestyle, medical issues, and mechanical disturbances. It is one of the most common health issues among workers, especially those who perform manual labour and have to endure long durations of sitting and no physical activity. This can worsen the problem. Orthopaedic surgeons are a group of specialists who not only diagnose the problem but also give detailed solutions for lower back pain that is apparent in Singapore. But there are a number of treatment options that are accessible to deal with the various causes of chronic lower back pain.
Back pain typically results from a combination of three causes:
The muscular back pain is a result of tiring the lower back muscles, which in turn, cause pain to be aching and cramping.
The tears in the intervertebral discs lead to the disc herniation and consequently the severe pain and the risk of disc protrusion increase.
Facet joint pain is a condition that develops in facet joints, which are located in the spine and can be affected by arthritis, therefore producing pain in the lower back up to the buttocks.
Musculoskeletal pain, especially back pain, being an elusive ailment to diagnose is a complex condition.
If you are experiencing lower back pain, a consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon that is well versed in diagnosis and treatments of such problems should be a priority. They are able to evaluate, interpret, and figure out the source of the problem.
(https://www.mkuh.nhs.uk/patient-information-leaflet/lower-back-pain-advice)
In lower back and buttock pain the diagnostic approach is comprehensive, which starts with a full medical interview with an orthopaedic surgeon to check symptoms and potential factors causing pain. This involves examining an overall health status, history of previous medical history, family history, and any pre-existing health disorders such as arthritis or diabetes which may affect decisions regarding the treatment. A comprehensive physical exam is considered necessary as it checks for elements like range of motion, edema and reflexes, and mobility to rule out or establish possible diagnoses. The structural abnormalities or misalignments of the affected area are mostly detected by the use of x-rays and MRI scans, which are helpful in evaluation of the condition which could also be its implications. Such diagnostic measures enable the surgeon to make an accurate diagnosis and to discuss properly in regard to the information obtained.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess weight can cause a lot of stress to your lower back, thus maintaining your weight through diet and exercise is a good way to avoid this. Exercises that are performed on a daily basis, particularly those that strengthen the muscles of the core and back, contribute to alleviate and support the back pains.
Practice Good Posture: One of the most important things you can do is to notice when you are not sitting or standing straight and to make an effort to correct it.
Quit Smoking: Smoking might trigger narrowing of vessels that supply blood to the spine, which then can be a cause of the back pain. Giving up smoking can definitely help you in improving your blood flow and consequently your back health.
Get Quality Sleep: Having a good mattress and a good posture helps to keep the spine in good shape and relieves the lower back pain.
(https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/young-woman-practicing-yoga-home_7168000.htm)
Lifestyle modifications such as decreasing weight, exercising, changing posture, stopping smoking, and getting adequate sleep can help reduce lower back pain and improve spinal health, but they are only one component of a therapeutic strategy. Certain reasons for lower back pain necessitate specialized medical care. Thus, orthopaedic surgeons are trained to accurately assess your pain and devise a personalised treatment plan that may include lifestyle changes, physiotherapy, drugs, or surgery. Their experience guarantees that you receive the best and most suitable care for your illness, resulting in better outcomes and well-being.
Dedicated physiotherapists strive to enhance your range of motion, physical function, and overall quality of life. Their personalised approach involves tailored exercises, hands-on therapy, and diverse techniques. They not only address current health issues but also prevent recurring injuries and disabilities. Through their varied skills, physical therapists not only treat health problems but also inspire patients to lead active, pain-free lives, ultimately boosting their holistic well-being.
Physiotherapy is a transformative approach to both acute and chronic back pain. For minor issues, physiotherapists craft personalised exercise plans, employ diverse techniques, and impart valuable knowledge on body mechanics to alleviate discomfort and prevent future challenges. Additionally, physiotherapy plays a pivotal role in post-surgical or intensive treatment recovery, aiding individuals in regaining strength, flexibility, and mobility post procedures like spine surgery. Whether addressing minor discomfort or aiding in recovery, physiotherapy is a non-invasive and integral component of holistic care, contributing to improved back health, pain reduction, and an overall enhancement of well-being.
Common pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can help with lower back pain, reducing inflammation and discomfort. They work by blocking prostaglandins, the culprits behind pain and swelling. While these medications offer temporary relief for lower back issues caused by strains or injuries, it’s crucial to incorporate them into a broader treatment plan for chronic pain. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to manage potential side effects and ensure a holistic approach to care.
(https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/side-view-woman-having-backache-while-working-from-home_11905060.htm)
When it comes to treating back pain, orthopaedic surgeons tailor plans to your unique needs. They consider both surgical and non-surgical approaches, covering:
– Medications for relieving back, buttock, and leg pain.
– Practical advice on lifestyle changes to cope with back discomfort.
– Physiotherapy to strengthen your back and core muscles, enhancing function and reducing discomfort.
– Targeted pain procedures addressing the root causes of back pain.
– Surgical interventions to alleviate pinched nerves and stabilize deteriorated spines.
(https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/doctor-man-consulting-patient-while-filling-up-application-form-desk-hospital_5017999.htm)
Orthopaedic surgeons play a vital role in keeping people healthy and active throughout their lives. Our musculoskeletal system, encompassing bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves, is a key player in maintaining mobility and a good quality of life. It’s worth noting that symptoms vary for everyone, and treatments differ based on individual health and lifestyle. The personalised care provided by orthopaedic surgeons emphasizes the crucial role they play in tailoring interventions to each patient’s unique needs, ultimately contributing to enhanced health and well-being.
Consulting an orthopaedic surgeon is essential for addressing musculoskeletal issues across all age groups. The musculoskeletal system is vital for mobility and well-being, and individual symptoms and treatment approaches vary based on unique conditions and lifestyles, emphasizing the need for personalized care.
Before considering chiropractic adjustments for lower back and buttock pain, consulting an orthopedic surgeon is crucial. Surgeons can accurately diagnose the issue, ensure safety, and prevent unnecessary treatments, resulting in appropriate, safe, and effective care.
Treatment for lower back and buttock pain, provided by orthopaedic surgeons, includes both surgical and non-surgical options. These treatments encompass medication, lifestyle guidance, physiotherapy, pain procedures, and surgical interventions, tailored to the patient’s specific condition.
Lifestyle changes for those with lower back and buttock pain involve maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, practicing good posture, quitting smoking, and ensuring quality sleep to support spinal health and alleviate discomfort.
Lower back pain can result from muscular, discal, or facet joint issues. It’s a complex condition, and consulting an orthopaedic surgeon is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, improving the quality of life for patients with musculoskeletal pain.
Dr Yong Ren graduated from the National University of Singapore’s Medical faculty and embarked on his orthopaedic career soon after. Upon completion of his training locally, he served briefly as an orthopaedic trauma surgeon in Khoo Teck Puat hospital before embarking on sub-specialty training in Switzerland at the famed Inselspital in Bern.
He underwent sub-specialty training in pelvic and spinal surgery, and upon his return to Singapore served as head of the orthopaedic trauma team till 2019. He continues to serve as Visiting Consultant to Khoo Teck Puat Hospital.
Well versed in a variety of orthopaedic surgeries, he also served as a member of the country council for the local branch of the Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Osteosynthesefragen (Trauma) in Singapore. He was also involved in the training of many of the young doctors in Singapore and was appointed as an Assistant Professor by the Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine. Prior to his entry into the private sector, he also served as core faculty for orthopaedic resident training by the National Healthcare Group.
Dr Yong Ren brings to the table his years of experience as a teacher and trainer in orthopaedic surgery. With his expertise in minimally invasive fracture surgery, pelvic reconstructive surgery, hip and knee surgery as well as spinal surgery, he is uniquely equipped with the tools and expertise necessary to help you on your road to recovery.
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