Suffering From Degenerative Spine Conditions? Your Guide to Seeing a Spine Specialist in Singapore

Degenerative spine conditions refer to disorders that occurs when there is a gradual spine deterioration, commonly due to wear and tear. Furthermore, degenerative spine conditions also encompass conditions that affects the intervertebral discs, facet joints and other structures in the spine. These conditions can be debilitating, impacting mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life. Some common degenerative spine conditions include: 

• Degenerative disc disease 
• Spinal Stenosis 
• Spondylolisthesis 
• Osteoarthritis 

While some discomfort may be manageable with conservative measures such as physical therapy and medication, certain symptoms may signal the need for specialised intervention. 

Red Flags of a Spine Condition That Would Warrant a Visit to a Neurosurgeon

Recognising these red flags is crucial for timely diagnosis and appropriate management. Here are key indicators that should prompt a visit to a neurosurgical specialist.

1. Persistent or Worsening Pain

   Chronic back or neck pain that persists despite conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications warrants evaluation by a neurosurgeon. Pain that radiates into the arms or legs, especially if accompanied by numbness, tingling, or weakness, may indicate nerve compression or spinal cord involvement requiring further assessment.

2. Difficulty Walking or Coordination Issues

   If you experience difficulty walking, frequent stumbling during quick movements, or loss of balance, it could indicate spinal cord compression affecting motor function. Neurological symptoms such as weakness or clumsiness in the arms or legs may also be present, suggesting nerve impingement requiring neurosurgical evaluation.

3. Progressive Numbness or Weakness

   Gradual onset or progressive numbness, weakness, or loss of sensation in the arms, hands, legs, or feet may be indicative of nerve compression or spinal cord injury. These symptoms should be thoroughly assessed by a neurosurgeon to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment plan.

What Are Some Lifestyle Tips to Slow Spine Degeneration Progress? 

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

   Excess body weight places additional strain on the spine, increasing the risk of disc degeneration and other spinal conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate pressure on the spine and reduce the risk of developing degenerative spine conditions.

2. Stay Active

   Regular physical activity is essential for keeping the muscles surrounding the spine strong and flexible. Incorporate low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, yoga, or Pilates into your routine to improve spinal stability, flexibility, and overall health.

3. Stay Hydrated

   Drinking an adequate amount of water helps keep the intervertebral discs hydrated and healthy. Dehydration can contribute to disc degeneration and increase the risk of developing spinal conditions. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day to maintain optimal spinal health.

4. Quit Smoking

   Smoking is a significant risk factor for degenerative spine conditions as it contributes to reduced blood flow to the spinal discs, accelerates disc degeneration, and impairs the body’s ability to heal. Nicotine and other harmful chemicals in cigarettes can weaken spinal tissues, increase inflammation, and exacerbate spine-related pain. Quitting smoking is helpful to preserve spinal health and reduce the risk of developing degenerative spine conditions. 

5. Proper posture 

   Having the correct posture can help decrease the progress of developing degenerative spine conditions. Poor posture adds pressure to the spinal discs, joints and muscles, leading to further wear and tear. For instance, when lifting heavy objects, use proper lifting techniques to avoid straining the spine. Bend at the knees, keep your back straight, and lift with your legs rather than your back. Avoid twisting your spine while lifting and carry heavy loads close to your body to reduce strain.

Don’t Suffer in Silence!

Although facing degenerative spine conditions is part of the natural ageing process, you need not face these conditions alone. Here at Precision Neurosurgery, we offer a wide range of services — consultations and treatments — that encompasses different conditions that involve the brain, nerves and certain spinal diseases so that you may be en route to recovery. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing back and neck pains that hinders with daily activities, don’t hesitate to reach out to us here. Early detection can help prevent further deterioration with the appropriate treatment plans.