Back Pain Treatment in Singapore
Specialist spine care by Dr Lau Leok Lim at Gleneagles Hospital, with a focus on accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment for persistent or severe back pain.
Understanding Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. While many episodes improve with rest and simple measures, persistent or severe pain may indicate an underlying spine condition that benefits from specialist assessment.
Learn more about the common causes of back pain.
Common Symptoms
- Localised lower back pain
- Pain radiating to the buttock or leg
- Numbness or tingling
- Stiffness or reduced mobility
- Pain that worsens with sitting, bending or lifting
- Difficulty standing upright
Common Causes of Back Pain
Slipped Disc (Herniated Disc)
A slipped disc occurs when the cushioning disc between the vertebrae bulges or ruptures, pressing on nearby nerves and causing back and leg pain.
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Degenerative Disc Disease
Age-related changes in the discs can lead to stiffness, reduced flexibility and chronic back pain.
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Spondylolysis / Spondylolisthesis
One vertebra slips forward over another, causing back pain or nerve symptoms.
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Osteoporotic Vertebral Fracture
Fragility fractures in older adults may cause sudden severe back pain.
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Hidden cause of back pain
A condition seen in adolescents and young adults, often related to sports.
Learn more
Treatment Options
Most patients improve without surgery. Treatment is tailored to your symptoms and imaging findings.
Non-surgical Options
- Activity modification
- Physiotherapy
- Core strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Nerve pain medication
- Image-guided injections (pain procedure)
Surgical Options
Surgery is considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical care.
- Microdiscectomy/Endoscopic discectomy
- Nerve decompression using Minimally invasive spine surgery
- Spinal fusion (selected cases)
Learn more about surgical solutions.
Cost of Back Pain Treatment in Singapore
Costs vary depending on the underlying condition and treatment required.
Factors that may influence cost include:
- Need for MRI or X-ray
- Non-surgical vs surgical treatment
- Day surgery vs inpatient stay
- Insurance coverage and Medisave eligibility
Consultation fees and treatment plans are discussed transparently during your visit. Our clinic team can guide you through estimated costs and insurance claims.
What to Expect During Your Consultation
- Detailed history
- Physical examination
- Review of X-ray and MRI
- Diagnosis explanation
- Personalised treatment plan
Why Patients Choose Dr Lau Leok Lim
- Orthopaedic & Spine Surgeon at Gleneagles Hospital
- Subspecialty training in minimally invasive spine surgery
- Evidence-based, patient-centred care
- Clear explanation of treatment options
- Same-day appointments available
Learn more about Dr Lau → Meet Dr Lau
Related Spine Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is back pain always serious?
Not always. Many episodes improve with time, but persistent or worsening pain should be assessed.
Do I need an MRI?
An MRI is recommended if symptoms persist, worsen, or involve nerve-related signs.
Will I need surgery?
Most patients do not require surgery. It is considered only when symptoms remain significant despite conservative care.
How long does recovery take?
Recovery depends on the underlying cause. Many patients improve within weeks.