Concerns About My Spine: Seeking Advice
At 34 years old, standing at 5 feet 2 inches and weighing 185 pounds, I've had my share of health challenges. Having gone through three pregnancies, two of which were delivered via C-section—most recently in July 2024—alongside dealing with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), I find myself contemplating my physical condition more than ever. I've endured discomfort in my lower and mid back since adolescence, which is frequently accompanied by hip pain. Engaging in activities for extended durations often results in significant pain that lingers into the night and the following day. Intense workouts like Zumba and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) seem to exacerbate the pain throughout my spine, which has led me to focus on gentler exercises such as spin classes and yoga only. The discomfort I experience manifests as a persistent ache paired with stiffness, leaving me yearning for a solution to relieve it. Stretching provides temporary alleviation, yet the pain intensifies with prolonged activity and subsides when I'm seated. Although I invest in supportive footwear, like Hoka shoes, I haven't felt much improvement. I trust my primary care physician, but often sense my concerns are not taken as seriously as they should be, which leads me to fear that my quality of life might deteriorate as I age. I acknowledge that my significant weight contributes to my pain issues. Just last week, I completed my nursing journey, and I'm now adjusting my diet while committing to regular physical activity, starting with walks. After undergoing a urethra diverticulum removal in July, I’ve been more inactive than I'd like, but I’m eager to regain my mobility. I wonder, am I overreacting or is there indeed a curvature in my spine? Is there anything I can do independently to help improve my situation, or should I seek a referral to an orthopedic specialist?
Answers (1)
8/10/2025, 6:51:00 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to be concerned about your spine and overall physical well-being, especially with your history of back pain and recent life changes. The discomfort you describe, combined with your active life and the challenges you've faced, warrants paying attention to your symptoms.
Explanation
The discomfort in your lower and mid-back, along with pain in your hips, could result from several factors, including muscle tightness, possible structural issues, or even the cumulative effects of past pregnancies and physical activity patterns. Weight can certainly play a role as well, as excess weight puts additional stress on the spine and joints. The fact that pain subsides when seated may indicate that certain activities are exacerbating the strain on your back.
Gentle exercises like walking, yoga, and potentially low-impact activities are wise choices as they may help strengthen your core muscles, improve flexibility, and reduce discomfort without overloading your spine. Stretching can provide temporary relief, but it’s important to build a routine that supports your back's health long-term.
Next Steps
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Continue Gentle Exercise: Focus on low-impact activities such as walking, gentle yoga, or swimming. These options can improve mobility without placing too much strain on your spine.
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Practice Good Posture: When seated or standing, be mindful of your posture. Keeping your shoulders back and your spine aligned can help alleviate some pressure and discomfort.
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Stability and Core Strengthening: Incorporate exercises that strengthen your core muscles, as a strong core can provide better support for your spine. You might explore physiotherapy videos online that guide you through these exercises safely.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a journal of your pain levels in relation to your activities and diet. This can help identify patterns and triggers for your discomfort.
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Weight Management: As you're adjusting your diet and beginning a new exercise regimen, aim for gradual weight loss if recommended by a healthcare provider. This can significantly benefit your back and overall health.
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Consider Professional Guidance: Given your ongoing pain and concerns, it might be beneficial to seek a referral to a physical therapist or an orthopedic specialist for an assessment. They can offer personalized strategies and confirm if there are any spinal curvature issues or other concerns.
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Be Proactive with Your Provider: Maintain open communication with your primary care physician about your concerns. If you feel your issues are not being taken seriously, remember you have the right to seek a second opinion.
By focusing on these actionable steps, you can actively work towards managing your pain and improving your quality of life. Your health journey is personal, and it’s important to feel empowered in your decisions moving forward. Let me know if you need more information on specific exercises or tips!
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