Chronic Discomfort After a Past Back Injury: Seeking Guidance
Hi there, I am reaching out for some assistance with my health issue. - Male, 24 years old - Height: 5 feet 6 inches - Weight: 115 pounds - Currently not taking any medications - Non-smoker - No previous medical concerns Almost three years ago, while I was engaged in weightlifting, I had an unfortunate incident where my spotter failed to assist me correctly during a squat with a weight of over 85 pounds. Initially, I didn’t think too much of the situation; however, a few days later, I found it quite painful to walk. I could no longer stride as I used to because my right leg was restricted by discomfort. This issue persisted for about a year until I noticed an unexpected improvement. One day, seemingly out of the blue, the pain in my leg disappeared, and I was able to walk more comfortably once again, though I had to retrain myself to take longer strides. Currently, I am experiencing ongoing pain in my lower back. This discomfort isn’t sharp, but at times it radiates to my hips, accompanied by sensations of unease in my anal area. Occasionally, this discomfort extends down to my knees, giving me a feeling of heat in them, if that’s the proper way to describe it. When I bend over a desk while standing to type or similar activities, my legs start to tremble and feel weak, which doesn’t occur under normal circumstances. My entire body also endures a constant level of unease, which I can only describe as chronic, lasting for more than a year now. Should I seek medical attention for this, such as an x-ray, or do you have any suggestions?
Answers (1)
7/2/2025, 7:10:40 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been dealing with a long-standing and complicated issue since your injury. The persistent discomfort you’re experiencing in your lower back, hips, and legs, along with sensations of unease, can be concerning and may indicate a need for proper evaluation.
Explanation:
Injuries like yours can lead to a range of issues, including muscle strain, ligament injuries, or even nerve involvement, which may cause radiating pain and weakness in your legs. The trembling you feel when bending over could suggest muscle fatigue or nerve issues, and the chronic unease might be related to persistent inflammation or altered biomechanics due to your prior injury.
Next Steps:
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Symptom Tracking: Keep a detailed record of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their intensity, and any activities that worsen or alleviate them. This will be helpful for any healthcare professional you might consult later.
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Gentle Movement: Engage in light physical activity to maintain mobility, such as stretching, walking, or gentle yoga. Focus on exercises that strengthen your core and back muscles, as these can offer support to your spine and may relieve some pressure.
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Pain Management: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, if you find that they help relieve your discomfort. Always follow the recommended dosages.
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Avoid Triggers: Pay attention to any activities that exacerbate your pain, such as prolonged sitting or specific movements. Find ways to modify your activities to prevent triggering discomfort.
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Plan for Evaluation: Since your symptoms have persisted and are affecting your daily activities, it may be wise to seek a medical evaluation. Mention your history and current symptoms to the healthcare provider, who may recommend imaging studies such as an x-ray or MRI to understand better what might be contributing to your discomfort.
By taking these steps, you can start addressing your symptoms proactively while preparing for a deeper evaluation if necessary. Remember, it’s important to listen to your body and consult with a healthcare professional if your situation doesn’t improve or worsens. Your well-being is the priority, and I wish you the best on your journey towards relief.
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