Study on public awareness of TCM orthopaedic massage’s therapeutic effect on lower back pain with clinical observation of its effectiveness

• Main Author: Foo, Shan Ju
• Other Authors: Ong, Poh Hong
• Format: Final Year Project
• Language: English
• Published: 2018
• Subjects: DRNTU::Science::Biological sciences
• Online Access: http://hdl.handle.net/10356/75929
• Institution: Nanyang Technological University

In Singapore, 60 - 90% of people are likely to have experienced Lower Back Pain (LBP) before. Due to the heavy economic burden of chronic LBP, patients sometimes turn to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for help. Orthopaedic Massage (tuina and chiropractic) is capable of treating LBP, although it has been poorly studied. This study aims to provide a better understanding of the awareness of LBP and TCM Orthopaedic Massage and its effectiveness in Singapore. A questionnaire regarding awareness of TCM Orthopaedic Massage and LBP (n = 215) and 18 Clinical Observations were conducted. Results showed that 70% of the respondents had LBP, which was most prevalent among 40 – 60-year-olds. Incorrect posture was the most cited reason for LBP (n = 93). Chiropractic was the least well-known therapy (n = 82). Inadequate knowledge was cited as the main reason that deter individuals from trying TCM (n = 74). All 18 patients under clinical observation experienced a decrease in pain level post-treatment. All in all, awareness level of TCM Orthopaedic Massage is low despite its effectiveness. Education remains essential in promoting awareness, although financial support could also be provided to encourage Orthopaedic Massage usage.