Common Causes of Back Pain

Back Muscle Strain or Sprain

Overexertion of back muscles, lifting heavy objects (e.g., deadlifts or sports), or sudden awkward movements. Causes localized pain, stiffness, and sometimes muscle spasms.

Herniated Disc (Bulging or Ruptured Disc)

The soft inner portion of a spinal disc pushes through the outer layer due to trauma, repetitive strain, lifting heavy objects, or poor posture. Causes extreme pain at times, including radiating leg pain (sciatica), numbness, tingling, or weakness.

Sciatica

Pain that originates in the lower back and travels down the sciatic nerve. Usually caused by compression or irritation of the nerve near its origin and commonly associated with lumbar disc pathology.

Degenerative Disc Disease

Wear and tear on spinal discs over time, leading to chronic back pain, stiffness, and reduced flexibility. Often related to aging and repetitive use.

Muscle Spasms

Involuntary muscle contractions often due to strain or injury. Causes sudden and intense pain with muscle tightness.

Osteoarthritis

Degeneration of joint cartilage in the spine, causing joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. Most commonly linked to aging and repetitive use.

Scoliosis

Abnormal curvature of the spine that causes back pain, uneven shoulders or hips. Often due to poor posture, genetics, muscle imbalance, aging, or injury.

When To Seek Treatment for Back Pain?

Back pain is one of the most common conditions, especially among office workers, active individuals, and those with long-term posture issues. While mild discomfort may improve with rest, persistent or worsening symptoms should be assessed early to prevent chronic problems. 

You should seek treatment if you experience: 

  • Pain lasting more than 1 week - Persistent back pain may indicate muscle strain, disc injury, or underlying spinal issues.  
  • Pain radiating down the legs (sciatica) - This may be a sign of nerve compression, often associated with a slipped or herniated disc.  
  • Stiffness or reduced mobility - Difficulty bending, twisting, or standing upright may indicate joint or muscle restriction.  
  • Pain when sitting, standing, or walking for long periods - This may suggest postural imbalance or spinal stress.  
  • Muscle spasms or sudden sharp pain - Acute pain may indicate muscle strain or ligament injury.  

Early treatment can help relieve pain, restore mobility, and prevent long-term spinal degeneration or chronic discomfort. 

How Our Integrative Approach Works

We believe lasting back recovery requires both structural correction and energetic balance. Our TCM physicians and physiotherapists collaborate closely to relieve pain, restore movement, and prevent recurrence. While TCM treatments promote circulation and calm inflammation, physiotherapy strengthens the muscles supporting your spine for long-term stability and resilience.

TCM for Back Pain

tcm for back pain relief - acupuncture, cupping, and herbal medicine

Experience the ancient art of Traditional Chinese Medicine, a natural and effective method for relieving Back pain. Our skilled and experienced TCM Physicians use various techniques such as acupuncture, herbal medicine, cupping and more to restore balance and promote healing, providing you with a minimally-invasive and non-surgical option for pain management.


How TCM Helps Back Pain

In TCM, back pain is often linked to Qi and blood stagnation, “cold-damp” obstruction, or deficiency in the kidney and liver meridians, which are believed to nourish the spine and tendons. Our TCM physicians tailor each treatment to address both the symptoms and root cause, enhancing circulation, relaxing muscles, and restoring natural energy flow for deep, lasting recovery.

Muscle Strain or Postural Pain - Acupuncture and Gua Sha relieve muscle tightness, improve circulation, and reduce fatigue from prolonged sitting or lifting. Cupping therapy releases trapped tension in the back muscles, easing stiffness and soreness. 

Herniated Disc & Sciatica - Acupuncture targets key meridian points to reduce nerve irritation and pain radiating down the legs. Moxibustion provides warmth and improves circulation, easing inflammation and promoting disc healing. 

Arthritis & Degenerative Spine Pain - Moxibustion and herbal medicine warm the lower back, dispel cold, and nourish tendons for improved flexibility and reduced morning stiffness. 

Chronic Weakness or Fatigue-Related - Back Pain Herbal formulations support kidney and liver health, helping strengthen the body’s foundational energy for better spinal support.


TCM Treatments for Back Pain

Tailored sports physio programs are designed to specifically address back pain and discomfort experienced during sports activities such as running, tennis, swimming, and weightlifting. Our comprehensive approach not only alleviates back pain but also enhances your performance by targeting the unique stresses these sports place on the back and spine. Through personalised rehabilitation and preventative strategies, we work to eliminate pain during your sport, improve mobility and core strength, and reduce the risk of recurring injuries or discomfort, helping you stay active and pain-free.

  • Acupuncture: Relieves pain, releases tension, and stimulates healing. 
  • Cupping Therapy: Improves blood flow and clears muscular tightness. 
  • Gua Sha: Reduces stiffness and enhances flexibility in overworked muscles. 
  • Moxibustion: Warms and soothes deep muscle and joint pain. 
  • Herbal Medicine: Nourishes connective tissues and supports recovery from within.


Benefits of TCM for Back Pain

  • Reduces inflammation and chronic stiffness 
  • Improves muscle flexibility and spinal mobility 
  • Enhances circulation for faster healing 
  • Strengthens tendons and ligaments naturally 
  • Addresses internal imbalances to prevent recurrence 

At Regis Wellness, our TCM physicians provide natural, minimally invasive treatments designed to relieve both acute and chronic back pain safely and effectively.

Physiotherapy for Back Pain

physiotherapy for back pain - deep tissue massage, ultrasound, manual therapy, strength & conditioning

Our physiotherapy provide individualised rehabilitation programmes to treat the root cause of your back pain, not just the symptoms. Each session uses evidence-based techniques to restore movement, improve posture, and build long-term spinal strength. We combine evidence-based methods such as manual therapy, deep tissue massage, and sports massage to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.


How Physiotherapy Helps Back Pain

  • Muscle Strain & Postural Imbalance - Manual therapy and deep-tissue massage release tight muscles; core strengthening improves posture and endurance for long-term relief. 
  • Slipped Disc & Sciatica - McKenzie extension exercises, nerve glides, and mobilisation techniques reduce nerve pressure and radiating pain. 
  • Arthritis & Degenerative Changes - Heat therapy and low-impact strengthening maintain flexibility and support joint mobility. 
  • Postural & Occupational Pain - Ergonomic retraining, movement correction, and mobility drills reduce tension from long hours of sitting or repetitive activity. 
  • Sports & Recurrent Injuries - Functional strength and core stability training improve load tolerance and prevent future strain or injury.


    Physiotherapy Treatments for Back Pain

    • Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilisation - Gentle, hands-on manipulation restores normal joint alignment and relieves stiffness in the spine. It reduces muscle guarding, improves flexibility, and promotes better spinal movement, making it especially effective for mechanical back pain or postural restriction. 
    • Deep-Tissue & Sports Massage - Targets tight muscles in the back, hips, and glutes to relieve tension and improve circulation. This therapy reduces chronic stiffness, breaks down scar tissue, and eases muscle spasms caused by overuse or prolonged sitting. 
    • Heat / Cold Therapy - Alternating temperature treatments reduce inflammation, relax tense muscles, and improve blood flow. Heat promotes healing in chronic cases, while cold therapy alleviates acute swelling and pain. 
    • Ultrasound Therapy - Uses soundwave energy to penetrate deep into muscle and connective tissue. It stimulates blood flow, decreases inflammation, and accelerates tissue regeneration, ideal for disc irritation, muscle strain, or ligament sprain. 
    • Postural Retraining - Corrects imbalances and improper movement habits that cause chronic back stress. Through ergonomic guidance and body awareness techniques, it helps you maintain better alignment during daily activities and work. 
    • Strength & Stability Conditioning - Focuses on strengthening the core, hips, and lower back muscles to provide lasting spinal support. These exercises improve balance, prevent re-injury, and enhance endurance for everyday or sports performance.


    Benefits of Physiotherapy for Back Pain 

    • Relieves stiffness and chronic muscle tension 
    • Corrects poor posture and movement habits 
    • Improves core strength and spinal stability 
    • Accelerates healing from strain or disc injury 
    • Prevents recurring back pain and future degeneration


    Sports Physio for Back Pain 

    Our sports physiotherapy programmes are designed for athletes, gym-goers, and active individuals managing back strain, stiffness, or overuse injuries. We combine soft-tissue therapy, mobility work, and movement correction to ensure safe, complete recovery and optimal performance. 

    You’ll benefit from: 

    • Relief from pain and stiffness during and after activity 
    • Improved posture, flexibility, and movement control 
    • Enhanced spinal stability and coordination 
    • Prevention of future strain or imbalance 
    • A confident, pain-free return to sport

    TCM vs Physiotherapy for Back Pain

    Both Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Physiotherapy are highly effective treatments for back pain, but they work in complementary ways. 

    TCM (Acupuncture, Cupping, Gua Sha) 

    • Helps reduce inflammation and muscle tension naturally  
    • Improves blood circulation and Qi flow  
    • Relieves chronic stiffness and tightness  
    • Supports deep tissue healing and recovery  


    Physiotherapy 

    • Restores spinal mobility and function  
    • Strengthens core and supporting muscles  
    • Corrects posture and movement patterns  
    • Provides structured rehabilitation programmes  


    Combined Approach (Best Outcomes) 

    For many patients in Singapore, combining both treatments provides optimal results: 

    • TCM relieves pain and reduces inflammation  
    • Physiotherapy restores strength and stability  
    • Together, they provide a long-term solution for back pain and prevent recurrence  

    This approach is especially effective for chronic back pain, sciatica, and posture-related conditions. 

    What Sets Regis Wellness Apart?

    why choose regis medical acupuncture therapy
    Patient-Centric Care
    At Regis Wellness, you're not just a patient; you're a valued individual. Our team takes the time to listen, understand your concerns, and work collaboratively with you to achieve optimal health outcomes.
    Holistic and Integrative Approach
    We believe in the power of integrative medicine, combining traditional and alternative therapies for a comprehensive and holistic approach to Back pain management.
    Professional and Expert Team
    Regis Wellness medical practitioners have years of experience in pain management. Our commitment is to guide you on the path to relief and recovery with personalised attention and medical expertise.

    Our Team

    Lead TCM Physician Amanda Chua - Regis Wellness

    Amanda Chua

    Lead TCM Physician

    14 years of experience in pain and injury management 

    Physiotherapist Chin Yi Khern - Regis Wellness

    Chin Yi Khern

    Physiotherapist

    4 years of experience in pain and injury management, rehabilitation

    Schedule Your Consultation Today

    Take the first step toward a pain-free life by scheduling a consultation with our expert team at Regis Wellness. Let us guide you on the path to relief and recovery.

    Don't Let Back Pain Hold You Back – Trust Regis Wellness for Comprehensive Care!

    Whatsapp Us Schedule Your Appointment

    Regis Wellness Katong

    437 Joo Chiat Road, Singapore 427650

    Near Marine Parade MRT

    TE26
    Shopfront Parking

    Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri:

    8.30am - 2.30pm

    5.30pm - 10.00pm  

    Wed:

    8.30am - 2.30pm  

    Sat:
    9.00am - 3.00pm

    Closed on Sundays and Public Holidays. For the latest updates on our clinic’s opening hours, please check our Google Maps.

    ** We will end registration 45 mins before the displayed closing time above. Please make an appointment in advance to avoid disappointment.

    WhatsApp Us Call Us (9851 3720) Get Directions Read more

    FAQ

    Accessibility & Support

    What are Regis Wellness locations and opening hours?

    Regis Wellness Katong is located at 437 Joo Chiat Road Singapore, 427650

    Click here to view our opening hours
    Does Regis Wellness provide physiotherapy for kids?
    No. Regis Wellness does not provide physiotherapy services for kids
    Does Regis Wellness physiotherapists provide home visits?
    No. Regis Wellness physiotherapists do not provide home visit services at the moment. However, please stay tuned for future service updates.

    Appointment

    How do I book an appointment?  

    You can book an appointment via WhatsApp here. You may also call our hotline @ +65 9851 3720 to book an appointment.

    What are Regis Wellness’s cancellation and refund policies?
    You can only cancel or change your appointments up to 24 hours before your appointment. You will receive your refund within 3 working days. No refund will be issued for no shows and cancellations within 24 hours before your appointment.
    What happens if I miss my appointment?
    No refund will be issued for missed appointments.
    Can I do walk-in for treatment?
    No, all services at Regis Wellness are currently by appointment only. Please book your appointment at least 24 hours in advance.

    Finance

    What are the modes of payment accepted at Regis Wellness?
    We accept NETS, VISA/MASTER/AMEX Card, GrabPay, Paylah, Paynow. Alipay. Unionpay, ApplePay.
    Can I receive subsidies using CHAS, Merdeka, or Pioneer cards?
    Physiotherapy services provided by Regis Wellness are not eligible for government subsidies.
    Can I make insurance claims for my visits to Regis Wellness?
    Please check with your insurer about your physiotherapy coverage as well as the terms and conditions for reimbursement. Not all insurance covers physiotherapy, Regis Wellness cannot submit insurance claims for you.

    Back Pain Related Enquiries

    When should I seek treatment for back pain?
    You should seek treatment if your back pain lasts more than a week, worsens over time, or affects your ability to sit, stand, or move comfortably. Early treatment can prevent chronic conditions.
    What is the best treatment for back pain in Singapore?
    The best treatment depends on your condition. Physiotherapy helps restore strength, mobility, and posture. TCM treatments help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. A combination of both often provides the most effective and long-lasting results.
    Is physiotherapy effective for back pain?
    Yes, physiotherapy is highly effective for back pain. It helps strengthen core muscles, improve posture, and restore movement. It is commonly used for muscle strain, slipped discs, and chronic back pain.
    Does acupuncture help with back pain?
    Acupuncture is widely used in Singapore for back pain. It helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and relieve muscle tension, especially for chronic pain and stiffness.
    How many sessions are needed for back pain treatment?

    The number of sessions depends on severity.
    Mild conditions may require one to three sessions.
    Moderate conditions may require four to eight sessions.
    Chronic cases may require more sessions.

    How much does back pain treatment cost in Singapore?
    Physiotherapy sessions typically start from $160. TCM consultation starts from $55, with subsequent consultations at $35. TCM treatments start from $65. At Regis Wellness, pricing is transparent with no packages or hard selling.
    Can back pain go away on its own?
    Mild back pain may improve with rest, but conditions such as slipped discs or chronic muscle strain may worsen without treatment. If symptoms persist, professional care is recommended.
    Do I need a referral for physiotherapy in Singapore?
    No, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a physiotherapist. You can book directly for assessment and treatment.
    What causes back pain in office workers?
    Back pain is commonly caused by prolonged sitting, poor posture, and lack of movement. This leads to muscle tightness, spinal stress, and imbalance over time.
    Is it better to choose TCM or physiotherapy for back pain?
    Both treatments are effective but serve different purposes. TCM focuses on pain relief and improving circulation. Physiotherapy focuses on strengthening and rehabilitation. Combining both approaches often provides the best long-term results.