Degenerative Disc Disease: Why Your Back Pain Might Not Be Just Age

Back pain is one of the most common reasons Singaporeans visit a doctor, and not all of it is simply due to ageing. One condition that contributes significantly to chronic lower back or neck pain is Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD). Despite its name, Degenerative Disc Disease is not strictly a disease but a condition caused by wear and tear of the spinal discs.

In this article, we will explore what degenerative disc disease is, common symptoms, causes, diagnostic methods, degenerative disc treatment options in Singapore, and how to manage pain effectively.

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What Is Degenerative Disc Disease?

Degenerative disc disease refers to the gradual deterioration of the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the bones (vertebrae) in your spine. These discs lose flexibility, elasticity, and shock-absorbing capabilities over time, leading to discomfort, instability, and sometimes nerve impingement.

Degenerative disc disease can occur anywhere along the spine, but it is most commonly found in the cervical (neck) and lumbar (lower back) regions.

What Causes Degenerative Disc Disease?

While ageing is a major factor, degenerative disc disease can also be influenced by:

• Repetitive spinal strain from physically demanding work
• Previous spinal injuries
• Obesity, which puts added stress on spinal discs
• Genetic predisposition to spine degeneration
• Smoking, which reduces oxygen supply to the discs

These factors can accelerate the breakdown of spinal discs, making the spine less stable and more prone to pain.

Symptoms of Degenerative Disc Disease

Symptoms vary depending on the location and severity of the degeneration. Common signs include:

• Chronic, dull pain in the lower back or neck
• Pain that worsens when sitting or bending
• Tingling, numbness, or weakness in the arms or legs (if nerves are affected)
• Relief when walking or changing positions
• Occasional sharp, shooting pain

If left untreated, Degenerative Disc Disease can significantly impact quality of life and limit mobility.

How Is Degenerative Disc Disease Diagnosed?

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Orthopaedic specialists in Singapore typically perform a combination of the following:

• Medical history review and physical examination
• X-rays to detect disc space narrowing
• MRI scans for detailed imaging of disc health and nerve compression
• CT scans, in some complex cases, to assess bone changes

An accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the best course of treatment.

Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment Options in Singapore

Treatment for DDD depends on the severity of symptoms and impact on daily life. Non-surgical approaches are usually tried first:

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises to strengthen supporting muscles and improve flexibility
• Pain management: Use of anti-inflammatory medication, muscle relaxants, or topical pain relief
• Epidural steroid injections: To reduce inflammation around affected nerves
• Lifestyle modifications: Weight loss, posture correction, and smoking cessation

Surgical Options

Surgery is recommended only when conservative methods fail to provide relief. Common surgical options in Singapore include:

• Discectomy: Removal of part or all of a damaged disc
• Spinal fusion: Fusing two or more vertebrae to stabilise the spine
• Artificial disc replacement: Insertion of a prosthetic disc to restore movement

Minimally invasive techniques are now more widely used, leading to faster recovery and less post-op pain.

Cost of Degenerative Disc Disease Treatment

1. Discectomy & Spinal Fusion Surgery

• Private hospitals typically charge between SGD 20,000 and SGD 40,000 for procedures like discectomy, laminectomy, or spinal fusion.
• Subsidised public hospital costs range from SGD 8,000 to SGD 15,000 for discectomy, and SGD 15,000 to SGD 30,000 for spinal fusion.

2. Epidural Steroid Injections

• According to MOH fee benchmarks, a lumbar or cervical epidural injection performed in a private hospital costs around SGD 850–1,700 (excluding hospital charges or medications) .

3. Physical Therapy & Consultations

• Sessions with an orthopaedic specialist usually cost SGD 120–250 in private practice.
• Physiotherapy typically ranges from SGD 80–150 per session.

4. Diagnostic Imaging

• An MRI scan for spine optimisation usually ranges from SGD 800 to SGD 1,500 in private hospitals, while public hospital rates are lower due to subsidies.

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist in Singapore

Degenerative disc disease may sound like a natural part of ageing, but it is a manageable condition. With the right diagnosis, timely care, and an individualised treatment plan, most patients can find long-term relief.

If you or a loved one is experiencing chronic back pain, don’t delay. Click the button below for an introduction to a trusted orthopaedic specialist in Singapore who can guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Upper Limbs): Dr Bryan Wang

Preferred Orthopaedic Specialist (Lower Limbs): Dr Ananda Vella

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Back to Main Channel: Bone & Orthopaedic Health

• Orthopaedic Care In Singapore: Upper Limbs
• Orthopaedic Care In Singapore: Lower Limbs
• Spine Disorders – Do Not Let Back Pain Disrupt Your Lifestyle