Lower back pain (LBP) is a common condition that affects people of all ages. It significantly impacts movement, comfort and daily activities, making simple tasks like standing, sitting or lifting difficult. This condition can happen due to several reasons, ranging from minor muscle strains to more complex structural issues. Identifying the exact source of pain is crucial for effective treatment.
Why Your Lower Back Hurts
Lower back pain can arise from a variety of conditions affecting the spine, muscles or nearby organs. Some of the most common causes include:
- Muscle or Ligament Strain: This is the most frequent cause of lower back pain. It occurs when muscles or ligaments that support the spine are overstretched or torn due to heavy lifting, sudden movement or poor posture.
- Traumatic Injury: Falls, car accidents or sports injuries can cause fractures, dislocations or soft tissue damage in the lower back. These injuries often lead to sudden and severe pain, sometimes restricting mobility.
- Herniated or Bulging Disc: The intervertebral discs cushion the bones of the spine. When a disc protrudes or ruptures, it can press on nearby nerves, causing sharp pain that may radiate down the leg.
- Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD): With ageing, spinal discs can lose moisture and elasticity, reducing their ability to absorb shock. This may lead to chronic pain, stiffness and decreased flexibility.
- Spinal Stenosis: This condition occurs when the spinal canal narrows, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. It can cause lower back pain along with numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs.
- Sciatica (Nerve Compression): Compression or irritation of the sciatic nerve results in sharp, shooting pain that travels from the lower back down one leg. Numbness or muscle weakness may also occur.
- Kidney Problems: Conditions such as kidney stones or infections can cause deep, radiating pain in the lower back or sides. This pain is often accompanied by fever, nausea or changes in urination patterns.
Lifestyle Factors That Contribute to Lower Back Pain
Everyday habits can have a significant impact on spinal health. Several lifestyle factors may contribute to lower back pain, including:
- Poor Posture: Sitting or standing with improper alignment continuously strains the muscles and ligaments of the lower back, leading to discomfort and stiffness over time.
- Improper Lifting Techniques: Lifting heavy objects without bending the knees or maintaining a straight back can cause sudden strains or even disc injuries.
- Excess Body Weight: Carrying extra weight increases pressure on the spine and supporting structures, making back pain more likely to occur or worsen.
- Stress: Emotional stress can cause muscles to tighten, especially in the back and shoulders, leading to tension and painful spasms.
- Poor Sleeping Habits: Sleeping on an unsupportive mattress or in awkward positions can place unnecessary stress on the spine and prevent the back from fully resting and recovering during sleep.
Making small adjustments to posture, movement and daily routines can help reduce the risk of back pain and support long-term spinal health.
When to See a Doctor for Lower Back Pain
Dr Thor Timothy is a consultant pain specialist and anaesthesiologist in Singapore who manages a wide range of acute and chronic pain conditions, including lower back pain. It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:
- Persistent pain that does not improve after one to two weeks of home treatment or rest
- Pain radiating down the legs or causing tingling and numbness, which may indicate nerve involvement such as sciatica
- Functional limitation that affects daily activities like walking, standing, sitting comfortably or bending
- Systemic symptoms such as fever, fatigue or unexplained weight loss, which may suggest an infection or inflammatory condition
- Loss of bladder or bowel control, which requires urgent medical attention.
At his clinic in Singapore, Dr Thor provides evidence-based care focused on identifying and addressing the root cause of pain. Using a combination of interventional pain management techniques, medication and individualised rehabilitation programmes, he helps patients achieve lasting relief and improved mobility.
If you experience any of these warning signs, consult a pain specialist promptly. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and support better recovery. Learn more about pain assessment and treatment options at https://www.thepainspecialist.sg/.
