Experiencing Persistent Back Pain Without a Clear Diagnosis
Greetings, I’m a 41-year-old female, standing at 5’1” and weighing around 150 pounds. Generally, I maintain good health, though I underwent a robotic Myomectomy last year. Since childhood, I have dealt with relentless back pain, but post-surgery, it has intensified significantly. Currently, I endure a staggering 8/10 level of discomfort localized in my lower back and tailbone, which has severely restricted my mobility. Over the last year, I have experienced three instances of my back "going out," each necessitating several weeks of recovery. Three months ago, I had both an X-ray and an MRI, which showed no abnormalities. I have participated in two separate physical therapy sessions with minimal improvement. This latest episode began four days ago, leading to an escalation in pain and some weakness in my legs, making ambulation quite difficult. The discomfort has become so severe that it disturbs my sleep, leaving me unable to find a comfortable position. I visited an orthopedic specialist today, but the examination felt rushed and inadequate. He had me perform a few basic movements and quickly determined it was merely a strain, advising me to return in 6 to 8 weeks if my condition doesn’t improve. This interaction lasted less than five minutes, leaving me feeling overlooked, especially since I had already undergone an MRI recently. The absence of a concrete diagnosis, other than the simple classification of “strain,” is incredibly frustrating. The only recommendations I received were to apply ice, rest, and take Advil. I am left with some pressing questions: how typical is it to experience unending back discomfort alongside severe pain episodes that hamper movement? Is there truly nothing more that can be done, or should I consider seeking another orthopedic opinion? Am I destined to live with this situation indefinitely? I have responsibilities and tasks waiting for me!
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 9:20:37 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the persistent back pain you've been experiencing, especially following your surgery. Your situation sounds incredibly challenging, particularly with the intensity of pain and its impact on your daily life. Let’s break this down to understand your concerns better and outline some actionable steps.
Key Points:
- Persistent back pain and severe episodes can stem from various causes, even if imaging shows no abnormalities.
- It's essential to consider further evaluations if current treatments aren’t helping.
- Addressing pain management and exploring additional therapies could be beneficial.
Explanation:
It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience chronic back pain that doesn’t always show up on imaging studies. Factors like muscle tension, spinal disorders, or nerve-related issues might be contributing to your discomfort. Pain that severely restricts movement and leads to episodes of "going out" suggests that a more thorough assessment may be needed.
Given your symptoms, especially the weakness in your legs and difficulty with mobility, it is crucial to ensure there is not an underlying issue that requires different management. A feeling of being overlooked by a healthcare provider can be frustrating; it’s important to seek care where you feel validated and understood.
Next Steps:
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Consider Seeking a Second Opinion: It could be beneficial to consult another orthopedic specialist or a pain management specialist. Bring along your MRI and X-ray results to provide context for your ongoing issues.
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Track Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your pain—note when it occurs, its intensity, any activities that exacerbate it, and how it affects your daily tasks. This information can help medical providers understand your condition better.
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Explore Other Therapies:
- Physical Therapy: If you haven’t already, consider a different physical therapist who specializes in back pain. Look for someone who can provide individualized assessments and treatment plans.
- Alternative Treatments: Acupuncture, chiropractic care, or osteopathic manipulation may offer relief for back pain in some cases. Ensure these are provided by licensed professionals.
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Pain Management Strategies:
- Continue using ice and anti-inflammatory medications as directed by your previous doctor.
- Gentle stretching and low-impact activities (like walking or swimming, if possible) could help; however, listen to your body and avoid movements that cause pain.
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Consider Psychological Support: Chronic pain can be mentally taxing. Techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, or relaxation exercises can help manage the mental aspects of living with chronic pain.
Your journey to finding relief may take time, but with persistence, you can discover a management plan tailored to your needs. Feel free to reach out with further questions or updates on your situation. You're not alone in this; many people with long-standing back issues have successfully navigated similar challenges, and solutions do exist.
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