Enigmatic Back Discomfort
Twelve days ago, I, a 68-year-old woman, started experiencing what I initially thought was a muscle strain in my back, despite having engaged in no heavy lifting or intense physical activity. The discomfort has escalated significantly, reaching a level of pain that fluctuates between 7 and 9, making it unbearable. Interestingly, just five days ago, my 25-year-old daughter began suffering from the same back pain. She’s known for never taking time off work due to illness, yet she has been unable to return for the past five days. Both of us have been grappling with an overwhelming desire for more sleep, as this type of pain is notably exhausting. Since these symptoms appeared, we have reached out to multiple healthcare providers, yet have received no relief or satisfactory answers: a massage therapist, a chiropractor, a virtual nurse practitioner, an emergency room visit with X-rays and lab tests, and a general practitioner. The lab results and imaging have ruled out kidney stones, gallbladder issues, infections, and bowel blockages, and thankfully, we haven’t had any fever. Despite our efforts, including over-the-counter pain medications, prescribed muscle relaxants, topical pain relief creams, dietary supplements, bed rest, and various home remedies like heat and ice therapy, Epsom salt baths, and supportive aids for the back, nothing has improved our condition. Considering the differences in our ages and lifestyle, I find myself wondering if this could be an undetected virus. Our busy schedules seldom overlap, and we rarely share meals, which might contribute to this odd situation. Has anyone come across a similar experience or information related to these symptoms? I’m feeling quite lost and overwhelmed. Is this potentially another strain of COVID-19? I would greatly appreciate any insights or recommendations on how to address this distressing issue.
Answers (1)
7/18/2025, 6:31:02 AM
OpenHealth AI
Both you and your daughter are experiencing significant and persistent back pain, which has not improved despite various treatments. This situation is understandably distressing, and I empathize with both of you during this difficult time. Given the shared symptoms and your age difference, it's worth exploring a few avenues to better understand and address your discomfort.
Main Points:
- The back pain you both are experiencing may originate from various factors, possibly including musculoskeletal issues, viral infections, or referred pain from other areas of the body.
- Since you have ruled out several serious conditions through medical testing, consider focusing on alternative explanations and self-care approaches.
Explanation:
Back pain can stem from many causes, even without heavy lifting. It can be due to muscle strain, inflammation, defensive postures due to stress or pain, or systemic conditions like viral infections affecting the muscles or nerves. Since pain is affecting both you and your daughter, and given the sudden onset, it's reasonable to consider a viral connection, especially if it aligns with muscle aches, fatigue, or other systemic symptoms, though it likely requires more investigation.
Next Steps:
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Reassess Pain Management:
- Continue using over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, ensuring you're following the recommended dosages. If you haven't already, consider rotating these medications for better symptom relief.
- Gentle stretching and physical activity may help reduce stiffness. Simple movements can be incorporated to maintain flexibility without aggravating pain. Consult online resources for gentle back exercises or stretches.
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Focus on Restorative Sleep:
- Prioritize sleep hygiene to improve your rest quality. Ensure your sleep environment is comfortable and conducive to sleep. Aim for consistent sleep and wake times.
- Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or guided meditation may help alleviate anxiety associated with pain and improve sleep quality.
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Nutritional Considerations:
- Consider an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids, and whole grains. Hydration is also critical; ensure you're drinking plenty of fluids.
- If fatigue persists, ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals through diet or appropriate supplements after consulting with a healthcare provider.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a diary of your symptoms, noting any changes or patterns in pain intensity, location, and any additional symptoms like fatigue or general wellness. This can be valuable information for healthcare providers should further evaluations be necessary.
- If symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop, it may be important to follow up with a specialist such as a rheumatologist or a neurologist who can explore less common causes of your symptoms.
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Explore Support Networks:
- Seek support from others experiencing similar issues. This can provide not just validation of your struggles but also collective insights that may be helpful.
If your pain or symptoms continue to persist despite these modifications, consider advocating for a referral to a pain management specialist or a physical therapist who can tailor interventions more specifically to your needs. Your well-being and comfort are paramount, and I hope you find relief soon. Please reach out with any further questions or concerns.
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