Slipped Disc and Sciatica in Singapore

What Are the Symptoms?

• Lower back pain or stiffness
• Radiating pain down the leg (sciatica)
• Numbness or tingling in the foot or calf
• Muscle weakness or foot drop
• Difficulty standing, walking, or climbing stairs

What Are the Risk Factors?

• Age 30–60 (disc degeneration)
• Repetitive bending, lifting, or twisting
• Prolonged sitting or poor posture
• Smoking and reduced disc hydration
• Obesity and core muscle weakness
• Previous spine injury or surgery

What Causes Slipped Disc and Sciatica?

• Herniated lumbar disc pressing on nerve roots
• Trauma or lifting injury
• Spinal instability or spondylolisthesis

How Is It Diagnosed?

• Clinical examination (e.g. straight leg raise test)
• MRI of the lumbar spine to confirm disc herniation
• CT scan for bony narrowing or foraminal stenosis

What Are the Treatment Options?

Non-Surgical Management

• Activity modification and ergonomic correction
• Physical therapy and core strengthening
• Oral medications (NSAIDs, nerve modulators)
• Epidural steroid injections for inflammation

Surgical Intervention

• Microdiscectomy (minimally invasive disc removal)
• Lumbar decompression and fusion (for instability)
• Endoscopic discectomy (select cases)

Conclusion

Slipped disc and sciatica can significantly affect mobility, comfort, and quality of life. At The Scoliosis & Spine Clinic (Sg), we offer comprehensive evaluation and tailored treatment plans—from conservative care to advanced surgical options. Early diagnosis and targeted therapy are key to long-term recovery and spinal health.

Frequently Asked Questions: Sciatica

What is sciatica?
Sciatica refers to pain caused by irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve, which runs from the lower back through the hips and down each leg. It often results from disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or degenerative changes in the lumbar spine.

Can scoliosis cause sciatica?
Yes. Scoliosis can alter spinal alignment and biomechanics, potentially leading to nerve root compression and sciatica-like symptoms, especially in cases with degenerative changes or disc involvement.

What are the red flags associated with sciatica?
Red flags include:

• Sudden, severe weakness in the leg or foot
• Loss of bladder or bowel control (possible cauda equina syndrome)
• Progressive neurological deficits
• Unrelenting pain not relieved by rest or medication
• History of cancer, unexplained weight loss, or fever

What are the typical symptoms of sciatica?
Sharp or burning pain radiating from the lower back to the thigh or calf, numbness or tingling in the leg, and occasional muscle weakness. Symptoms may worsen with sitting, bending, or twisting.

What is Cauda Equina Syndrome?
Cauda Equina Syndrome is a rare but serious condition caused by compression of the bundle of nerves at the lower end of the spinal cord, known as the cauda equina. This can lead to severe neurological impairment if not treated promptly.

• Sudden loss of bladder or bowel control
• Severe or progressive weakness in the legs
• Numbness in the saddle area (inner thighs, buttocks, genitals)
• Sharp or shooting pain in the lower back and legs
• Sexual dysfunction or loss of sensation

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention are critical to prevent permanent damage.

Who should I see for sciatica?
If you’re experiencing persistent sciatica—pain radiating from your lower back down your leg—it’s best to consult an orthopaedic surgeon with a special interest in spine conditions or spine surgeon who can be either orthopaedic trained or neurosurgery trained. These specialists are trained to diagnose and treat spinal disorders, including nerve compression, herniated discs, and degenerative changes that often cause sciatica.

• Expertise in spinal anatomy and nerve-related pain
• Ability to interpret MRI and imaging for disc or nerve issues
• Access to advanced treatment options including minimally invasive surgery
• Collaboration with physiotherapists and pain specialists
• Experience managing complex spine conditions like slipped disc or scoliosis

Early evaluation can help prevent worsening symptoms and guide you toward effective treatments such as physiotherapy, medication, or surgical intervention.

What is the recovery period for successful non-operative treatment?
Most patients improve within 6 to 12 weeks with conservative care, including physiotherapy, medications, and activity modification. Physical therapy focuses on core strengthening, flexibility, and posture correction.

When is surgery recommended?
Surgery is considered when:

• Symptoms persist beyond 6–12 weeks despite conservative care
• There is significant nerve compression with weakness
• Imaging confirms a surgically treatable lesion

What is the recovery time after surgery?
Recovery varies by procedure and patient. Most patients return to light activity within 4–6 weeks and full activity within 2–3 months. Minimally invasive techniques may shorten recovery time.

How much does sciatica surgery cost?
Costs vary by region, hospital, and insurance coverage. In Singapore, private sector discectomy procedures may range from SGD 20,000 to SGD 40,000, depending on complexity and hospital class. Public sector costs may be lower with subsidies. Always consult your provider for a personalized estimate.

Can I return to sports after treatment?
Yes. With proper rehabilitation and clearance, most patients return to sports. Our clinic emphasizes targeted physiotherapy to rebuild strength and prevent recurrence.

Does the clinic assist with insurance claims?
Yes, we are ready to assist you with your insurance claims. Our administrative team is experienced in handling medical documentation and can help you navigate the claim process smoothly.

• Support with completing insurance forms
• Provision of medical reports and invoices
• Coordination with major insurance providers
• Guidance on pre-authorisation procedures
• Assistance with Medisave and Integrated Shield Plans (where applicable)

We aim to make your experience as stress-free as possible so you can focus on your recovery. Feel free to speak with our front desk team for personalised support.

How does your clinic approach sciatica care?
We offer a multidisciplinary approach—combining orthopedic expertise, physiotherapy, and personalized care plans. Whether non-operative or surgical, our goal is to relieve pain, restore function, and support long-term spine health.

Ready to Take the First Step Toward Relief?

Whether you’re struggling with sciatica, recovering from a spinal injury, or seeking expert care for scoliosis, our multidisciplinary team is here to help. We offer personalized treatment plans, advanced diagnostics, and compassionate support—so you can move with confidence again.

Don’t wait for the pain to define your life.

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