Sensation of Burning Discomfort in Lower Back and Neck
I've been dealing with a burning sensation originating in my lower back that has since extended to my neck and shoulders. Lately, I've noticed some tingling in my arm and one leg, but that subsided after a day of stretching. However, the discomfort has intensified in my neck, particularly when I attempt to move it, and there's a noticeable stiffness as well. After consulting my doctor, I received a prescription for anti-inflammatory medication to be taken over the next week. I also underwent blood tests for ferritin levels and inflammation, both of which returned normal results. A couple of months ago, I experienced pain related to TMJ, which was mild and accompanied by some lower back discomfort, though it wasn't as severe as the burning sensation I'm currently facing. Age: 30 Gender: Female Weight: 66 kg Height: 168 cm
Answers (1)
8/12/2025, 11:10:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing a complex mix of discomfort and sensations in your lower back, neck, and shoulders, along with occasional tingling in your arm and leg. These symptoms can often be related to muscle strain, nerve irritation, or tension, especially given your previous TMJ issues.
Explanation:
Burning sensations and stiffness in the neck and lower back can be caused by several factors, including muscle tension, poor posture, overuse, or nerve involvement. The tingling typically indicates some temporary nerve irritation; stretching often helps by relieving pressure. Since you have been prescribed anti-inflammatory medication, that indicates your doctor suspects inflammation or irritation may be contributing to your discomfort.
Next Steps:
-
Continue Medication: Take your anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed. This can help reduce pain and inflammation.
-
Gentle Stretching and Movement: Since you found relief from stretching, continue with gentle stretches focusing on the neck and lower back. Consider incorporating specific neck stretches and shoulder rolls but avoid anything that exacerbates your pain. Aim for about 10-15 minutes of stretching at least once a day.
-
Posture Check: Pay attention to your posture during daily activities, especially if you sit for long periods. Ensure your workspace is ergonomically friendly (computer screen at eye level, feet flat on the ground, etc.).
-
Heat Therapy: Applying a warm compress or heating pad to the affected areas can help relax muscles and alleviate burning sensations.
-
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms daily. Note any changes in the intensity or new sensations, which can help in further assessments if necessary.
-
Schedule Follow-Up: Since you've already consulted with your doctor, consider scheduling a follow-up if the symptoms persist or worsen despite these measures.
It's important to approach this with patience, as relief can take time. You are not alone in facing these discomforts, and many people find they can manage and improve their symptoms with self-care. If you have any further questions or need assistance finding more specific exercises, feel free to ask.
Related Questions
Experiencing a Pinched Nerve Near the Shoulder Blade
At 25 years old, and without any previous health issues or medications, I suddenly find myself dealing with a pinched nerve in my shoulder. The cause is unclear to me. I've encountered pinched nerves before, primarily in my neck, but this experience feels distinctly different. It's only been three days, yet the pain has rendered me nearly incapacitated. Simple tasks like using the bathroom, sleeping, and even showering have become incredibly challenging due to significant pain and restricted movement. After looking into this condition, I’ve learned that recovery may take anywhere from four to six weeks, a timeline I'm not equipped to manage given the intensity of my discomfort. My profession involves physical activity, and my hobbies mirror that requirement. In an effort to find relief, I have tried a variety of approaches: alternating ice and heat, taking over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol and Advil, resting whenever possible, and incorporating stretches recommended in online videos. Unfortunately, nothing seems to alleviate the pain. I’m reaching out for guidance. Would physical therapy be beneficial in my situation? Are there particular stretches known to provide relief for pinched nerves? A friend of mine mentioned that muscle relaxants failed to help her during a similar episode; should I consider trying them nonetheless? Is visiting a doctor necessary at this point? I appreciate any advice you can provide to help me navigate this painful situation.
Is Constipation Possible Without Symptoms?
For me, experiencing a lack of bowel movements for a span of 8 to 10 days on a monthly basis is quite common, and I suspect it is linked to my premenstrual syndrome, as it consistently occurs during the same week every month. However, I find myself questioning whether this situation qualifies as constipation, mainly because I do not exhibit any classic signs. There is no pain, no discomfort, and no bloating; I genuinely feel as though there is no urgent need to relieve myself. I am 24 years old.
Braved the Cold Without Gloves at -20
19-year-old from Toronto here. After being outside in frigid temperatures, I've returned home feeling quite cold. My right hand is experiencing numbness and tingling in the fingertips. What steps should I take? It's been around 7 to 8 hours since I was outdoors.
Managing Early Appendicitis: Antibiotics vs. Surgery
I’m a 21-year-old who recently had a CT scan revealing mild inflammation in my appendix and lymph nodes. My doctor informed me that surgery might not be necessary if the antibiotics effectively alleviate my discomfort by tomorrow. However, I can’t shake my fears about a potential recurrence of the inflammation. The thought of going through a post-surgery recovery terrifies me, so I really want to steer clear of that option. Has anyone opted for antibiotics rather than surgical intervention? What was your experience like?
Concerns Over My Partner's Persistent Pain and Resistance to Seek Medical Help
I’m facing a worrying situation with my partner, a 40-year-old man who stands 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighs approximately 19 stone. Here's a brief overview of his medical background: Twenty years ago, he experienced two instances of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in his left shoulder. Following the second incident, doctors discovered an abnormal growth of a rib that was pressing against a vein, which was the cause of those DVTs. More recently, he dealt with a blood clot in his calf last year. Fortunately, that was successfully treated, and he returned to his normal health. Although he was advised to continue taking apixaban for the long term, he has, unfortunately, chosen not to follow through with this guidance. He also has a history of elevated blood pressure. For the past couple of days, he has been experiencing two concerning symptoms that emerged simultaneously: a persistent cough with no accompanying cold or flu signs, and a severe pain located on the right side of his torso. He describes this discomfort as being mostly in his stomach yet extending slightly to his back. I would pinpoint the troubled area as the lower part of his ribs along the side of his body. It's unusual for him to express discomfort or complain about his health, so his recent grievances signal to me that the pain is likely quite significant. Despite my repeated suggestions for him to visit a doctor, he insists that he may have simply pulled a muscle. To manage the pain, he's been applying an ibuprofen cream (voltarol) and taking naproxen, but neither seems to provide relief. What might be the underlying issue here? I hope that some medical professionals who see this post can offer their insights, which might persuade him to consider making a doctor’s appointment. I’m open to providing any additional information you might require for a more informed perspective. Thank you for your help!