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Most back pain can be treated conservatively, such as physiotherapy and rest. However, in cases where the nerves and mobility are affected, surgery is the more ideal treatment.

Patients can choose the minimally invasive option of surgery for their back pain treatment. Known as minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF), the procedure uses multiple small incisions instead of the long incision that damages more muscles and tissues.

MIS TLIF can be carried out to treat a number of lower back conditions, such as recurrent disc herniation or scoliosis. It can also ease leg or back pain caused by degenerative disc disease.

Of course, prevention is better than cure. Dr Yue says that good posture and regular exercises are important in spine and back pain prevention. Good posture includes standing up straight and not slouching. Doing exercses three to four times a week lowers the risk of back pain.

Smoking is harmful to the spine due to its link to spinal disc degeneration. It may also negatively impact the outcome of MIS TLIF and other spine surgery.

The above is a summary of an article written by Dr Yue Wai Mun, published on 14 July 2016. Read the full article on Global Health and Travel magazine.