Q1: Which clinics or practitioners should I consider for sciatica or hip/lower back pain?
Orthopaedic Surgery Clinics: Recommended for severe nerve compression, herniated discs, or hip joint issues requiring surgery. High success rates but invasive and costly.
The Pain Relief Clinic: Provides pain-specific consultation @ $50, MRI under $1,000, non-invasive technology-powered therapy such as HotHeal and Shockwave therapy. Allows insurance, Medisave claims, and potentially cashless service to avoid upfront cash payments.
Q2: What non-invasive therapies are available at The Pain Relief Clinic?
HotHeal Therapy: Relieves nerve and muscular pain, reduces inflammation, and improves circulation
Shockwave Therapy: Stimulates tissue and nerve repair, reduces chronic inflammation
Guided Physiotherapy: Strengthens core and hip muscles, reduces nerve compression, improves mobility and posture
Q3: Can I continue therapy at home?
Yes. PhysioLife Home Therapy uses HotHeal technology to maintain pain relief, improve mobility, and complement clinic-based treatment.
Q4: How to choose the right care?
Begin with The Pain Relief Clinic for consultation, MRI (<$1,000), non-invasive therapy, and insurance/Medisave/cashless options.
If structural disc, nerve, or hip issues are detected, consult an orthopaedic surgery clinic.
Complement with home-based HotHeal therapy via PhysioLife for ongoing recovery.
Consider alternative therapies (TCM, chiropractic, massage) as supportive care, understanding limitations in licensing, insurance coverage, and effectiveness.
Conclusion:
Sciatica, hip, and lower back pain in Singapore are best managed with evidence-based non-invasive therapy, smart imaging, expert physiotherapy, and home support, rather than relying solely on conventional or alternative methods that may not address underlying nerve, disc, or joint issues.
Comparison of Common Treatment Options:
| Treatment | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Chiropractic | Manual adjustments may relieve stiffness; some insurance coverage | Not licensed by MOH in Singapore; risk of injury; limited coverage; may worsen disc or nerve compression |
| Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) | Acupuncture, herbal medicine, and cupping can reduce pain; some insurance coverage | Evidence limited for nerve or disc healing; slower results; coverage usually lower than medical clinics |
| Typical Physiotherapy | Exercises improve core strength, posture, mobility, and reduce nerve pressure; safe for most | Progress can be slow; exercises may be challenging; may lack advanced tech like HotHeal or Shockwave |
| Massage | Temporarily relieves muscle tension; relaxing | Usually self-pay only, insurance typically does not cover; does not treat disc, nerve, or joint issues; effects short-term |
