Dr Colum Nolan
Senior Consultant Spine & Neurosurgeon
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)
Back and neck pain are very common. While occasional aches often improve with rest or lifestyle changes, persistent pain can sometimes signal underlying spinal problems that need medical attention. Knowing when to see a spine surgeon or specialist is key to preventing any long-term damage and ensuring the best possible outcome.
Signs It May Be Time to See a Spine Surgeon
If these symptoms persist or worsen even after rest, physiotherapy or lifestyle changes, you should consider seeking specialist medical attention from a spine surgeon:
Persistent Back or Neck Pain
Ongoing discomfort in the back or neck that lasts beyond a few weeks can indicate more than simple muscle strain. Persistent pain may be linked to conditions such as degenerative disc disease, herniated discs or spinal stenosis. If pain interferes with daily tasks, work or sleep despite rest and over-the-counter care, consulting a spine surgeon can help.
Numbness or Tingling in the Limbs
Pins and needles, numbness or burning sensations in the arms, hands, legs or feet often point to nerve compression. This may occur when a disc presses on nearby nerves or when spinal narrowing reduces nerve space. Left untreated, nerve symptoms can worsen and may eventually lead to lasting nerve damage.
Weakness Affecting Mobility
Weakness in the arms or legs, difficulty gripping objects or a tendency to stumble while walking are warning signs that the nerves controlling muscle function may be compromised. In severe cases, individuals may develop foot drop or difficulty with coordination.
Pain Not Improving with Non-Surgical Treatments
Most spine-related discomfort initially responds to conservative treatment such as physiotherapy, posture correction, activity modification and medications. However, if pain does not improve despite several weeks of non-surgical care, further evaluation is needed.
Non-Surgical vs Surgical Treatment Options
Many patients are understandably concerned about whether spine surgery can be avoided. In most cases, non-surgical care is the first line of treatment. Common non-surgical treatments include:
- Physiotherapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve posture
- Pain management strategies such as anti-inflammatory medications or targeted injections
- Lifestyle adjustments like ergonomic changes, regular exercise and weight management
- Activity modification to reduce strain and prevent further injury
Surgery is only considered when conservative treatments fail to provide relief or when the condition is severe, posing a risk of permanent nerve damage. The decision is always made after careful evaluation and imaging, weighing the potential benefits of surgery against its risks to ensure the best outcome for the patient.
What to Expect During a Consultation with a Spine Surgeon
The goal of your first consultation is mainly to try and identify the cause of your symptoms and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan. Your doctor may:
- Take a detailed medical history, including when your symptoms began, what triggers them and how they have progressed
- Discuss your lifestyle, occupation and daily activities that may contribute to your spine condition
- Perform a physical examination to check your mobility, muscle strength, reflexes and nerve function
- Review any existing imaging tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, or order new scans if needed to confirm the diagnosis
This comprehensive assessment helps your surgeon create a personalised treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
How to Choose the Right Spine Surgeon in Singapore
The right surgeon will guide you through all treatment options, helping you choose the approach best suited to your condition. You will want a surgeon whose skills, experience and character inspire confidence in your care. When evaluating your options, consider factors such as:
- Qualifications and Training: Choose an experienced and accredited surgeon in the field, ideally with subspecialty training in spine surgery.
- Range of Treatments Offered: Look for a doctor who provides a wide range of treatments and is skilled in minimally invasive techniques.
- Communication Style: A good surgeon takes time to answer your questions and explain treatment options clearly, helping you make informed decisions.
If you are experiencing symptoms that could be related to a spinal condition, please book a consultation with our spine specialist for a detailed assessment and treatment plan, today.
Our Spine Specialist in Singapore
Dr Colum Nolan
Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon
MB, BCh, BAO, LRCPSI, MRCSI, FRCSI (Neurosurgery)
Dr Colum Nolan is a Senior Consultant Neurosurgeon and the Medical Director of Oxford Spine & Neurosurgery Centre. He undertook specialist neurosurgery training in Ireland and Australia, and later on completed a complex spine surgery fellowship at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge, UK.
Dr Column held key leadership roles including Director of the Spine and Spinal Disorders Programme at the National Neuroscience Institute (NNI), as well as the Head of Neurosurgery Service at Sengkang General Hospital.
With his depth of experience, Dr Colum is committed to guiding each patient towards the safest and most effective treatment for their needs.
