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Shocked to be diagnosed at 26: ‘I thought sciatica was an older person’s condition’
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Mr Muhammad Zaki Saifee was diagnosed with sciatica at age 26 and had a herniated disc pressing on a nerve, causing the condition.
ST PHOTO: NG SOR LUAN
Follow topic:
- Sciatica, nerve pain affecting the lower back and legs, is increasingly seen in younger Singaporeans, aged 20s-40s, due to sedentary lifestyles and intense exercise.
- Doctors like Dr Bernard Lee and Dr Thomas Tan note poor posture, prolonged sitting and improper gym form contribute to early-onset sciatica.
- Treatments range from physiotherapy and medication to surgery for severe cases; Mr Zaki and Ms Ng highlight the importance of early intervention and lifestyle adjustments.
AI generated
SINGAPORE – In 2021, after months of inactivity during the Covid-19 pandemic, Mr Muhammad Zaki Saifee decided to hit the gym.
He attempted a set of dumbbell lunges, then woke up the next day with searing pain radiating from his lower back to his left calf.
