Chronic back pain is often mistaken as a normal part of ageing, but persistent discomfort may signal spinal problems that require proper medical attention.
Back pain is commonly experienced by many people, especially in older age, and is often considered a natural consequence of the ageing process. In fact, pain that persists chronically is not a normal condition. This complaint needs further attention, as it may indicate an underlying health problem that requires proper treatment.
In this regard, dr Aries Rakhmat Hidayat, Sp.OT(K) from Mayapada Hospital Surabaya explained, “Chronic back pain needs to be taken seriously, particularly if it lasts for more than three months. This condition may be caused by functional decline (degeneration) due to ageing or conditions such as a slipped spinal disc (disc herniation/pinched nerve), spinal joint disorders, as well as weakened supporting muscles. In addition, lifestyle factors such as lack of movement, poor posture, and the habit of sitting for too long also increase the risk.”
Chronic back pain may begin with symptoms such as pain in the lower back, stiffness in the spine, or pain that radiates to the buttocks or legs. In some cases, this discomfort can make it difficult for sufferers to sit or stand for long periods.
To treat chronic back pain, dr Aries explained, “Management of chronic back pain must be adjusted according to the cause, but most cases can be treated with a conservative approach, ranging from physiotherapy and core muscle strengthening exercises to adopting a more active lifestyle,” said dr Aries.
He continued, “Core muscle strengthening exercises play an important role in maintaining spinal stability and reducing pressure on the affected area. Combined with good posture while sitting or standing, these simple steps can help relieve as well as prevent back pain,” he added.
However, if back pain lasts for a long time or becomes worse, dr Aries advises seeking medical examination immediately to determine the cause. With an accurate diagnosis, the most effective treatment can then be decided according to the patient’s condition.
Through this explanation, awareness of chronic back pain becomes very important, so that proper treatment can be carried out promptly at healthcare services that focus on bones and joints. Mayapada Hospital provides an Orthopedic Center service that can handle various complaints related to muscle and joint pain, as well as prevention and recovery from injury, supported by a team of specialist doctors.
In addition, Mayapada Hospital also offers fitness support through the Sports Injury Treatment & Performance Center (SITPEC), which provides comprehensive services ranging from screening, prevention, injury treatment, to performance improvement for more optimal physical activity. The centre is supported by complete facilities such as a gym, VO₂ Max testing, and Body Composition Analysis to support training programmes.
For complete information about healthcare services at Mayapada Hospital, you can access the MyCare application by visiting the Health Articles & Tips feature. The application is also equipped with a Personal Health feature to monitor fitness, including step count, heart rate, calories burned, and Body Mass Index (BMI).