Back Pain Specialist Singapore

Dr. Bryan Tan

MBBS (Singapore)

MMed (Ortho)

FRCS Ed (Orth)

Back pain is one of the most common medical problems amongst people of all ages and typically occurs due to poor posture, injury, structural abnormalities or underlying medical conditions. While back pain can bring significant pain and discomfort, it can generally be treated via non-surgical methods. However, more severe cases may require surgery to alleviate symptoms. It is vital to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and management can reduce back pain complications.

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Dr. Bryan Tan

Orthopaedic Surgeon

Sports have always played a big part in Dr Bryan’s life. His interest in sports and varied sporting activities give him a deep understanding of sports injuries and the mindset of an athlete.

The condition often develops gradually over time and is difficult to detect. This painful condition affects 2-5% of the general population.

Dr Bryan Tan is a fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon, based in Singapore. He completed 2 fellowships in Orthopaedic Sports, Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in Sydney, Australia and Nice, France. Prior to private practice, Dr Bryan was a consultant in the Division of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery in National University Hospital (NUH), Singapore. He is currently still a visiting consultant at NUH where he actively teaches medical students and young orthopaedic surgical trainees. In addition, he travels to regional countries to teach advanced arthroscopic surgical techniques.

MBBS(Singapore)
MMed (Ortho)
FRCS Ed(Orth)

Dr. Bryan has a special interest in keyhole surgery and performs most of his surgeries using advanced, modern keyhole surgical techniques. He regularly visits fellow surgeons from other countries to ensure his skills and knowledge are cutting edge.

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What Is Back Pain?

The back is composed of a complex structure of muscles, tendons, ligaments, discs and bones, which work together to provide stability and flexibility to the back. Back pain is pain anywhere in the back and may sometimes radiate to the hips, buttocks and legs.

Back pain can affect people of all ages and typically occurs due to direct trauma to the back or spine, structural abnormalities in the spine or underlying medical conditions.

What Are the Symptoms of Back Pain?

Common symptoms of back pain include:

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How Is Back Pain Treated?

Non-Surgical Treatment

Common treatment methods include:

Physical therapy
Warm compression
Taking pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen or ibuprofen
Muscle relaxants
Sedative medications
Corticosteroid injections
Opioids such as oxycodone (OxyContin)

Surgical Treatment

Surgery to treat back pain is generally recommended for those with structural abnormalities that have not responded well to non-surgical treatment such as medication or therapy. Alternatively, surgery is also effective for people with severe and constant back pain due to nerve compressions, spinal cord compression or identifiable structural abnormalities.

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How Is Back Pain Diagnosed?

Your doctor will first perform a physical examination of your back to check for symptoms such as pain or stiffness, as well as test your back and spine’s mobility. A review of your medical history and lifestyle habits may also be conducted.

In addition, your doctor may also perform one or more of the following imaging tests to further determine the cause of your back pain:

Blood test
Urine test
X-ray (show the alignment of bones and check for fractures)
CT or MRI scans (assess the discs, muscles, nerves and blood vessels)
Bone scan (detect abnormalities in the bone tissue)
Nerve conduction studies (test nerve signals)

What Causes Back Pain?

Common causes of back pain include:

What’s the first step?

Your Treatment Roadmap with Dr. Bryan

step 1

Book An Appointment
With Dr. Bryan

Our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you. Fill up this form to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bryan.

step 2

Initial Consultation & Diagnosis of your Condition

During your consultation, Dr. Bryan will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing. You may also ask Dr. Bryan any questions you may have about your condition.

step 3

Treatment & Follow Up Visits With Dr. Bryan

After your consultation with Dr. Bryan, our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your follow-up appointment, and provide you with instructions/information for any prescribed treatment plans from Dr. Bryan.

Frequently Asked
Questions

Is back pain serious? When should I visit a doctor?

While back pain is typically not life-threatening, it can still bring significant pain and discomfort. Back pain may also be a sign of an underlying medical condition which requires proper treatment.

You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms persist for an extended period of time, worsen, or significantly interfere with your daily activities.

What increases the risks of back pain?

Genetic factors
Poor posture
Ageing
Lack of exercise
Sedentary lifestyle
Pregnancy
Obesity
Improper form or technique when playing sports or working out
Smoking

How to prevent back pain?

Practice good standing and sitting posture (neutral pelvic position or back straight)
Exercise regularly to build back muscle endurance and core strength
Maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking