Overwhelming Back Pain Experience
Summary: After being shuffled between different medical professionals, I've yet to receive a clear diagnosis or effective treatment for my excruciating back pain. I am reaching out for guidance. I am a 28-year-old woman, standing 5'6" and weighing 220 pounds. I do not smoke. For the past five months, I have been searching for answers without success. To provide some context: approximately 17 months ago, I underwent surgery for a lumbar microdiscectomy. About five months ago, I began experiencing a sensation of numbness in my medial left foot, which has since intensified. As this issue escalated to include significant lumbar and sacroiliac joint pain, I consulted with my neurosurgeon. Following imaging studies, I was told there were no abnormalities and was directed to a pain management specialist. After several more imaging procedures, test injections, and a regimen of prescribed anti-inflammatory medications and pain relief, there has been no alleviation of my symptoms. Subsequently, I was sent to a rheumatologist who conducted additional imaging and tests. The blood analysis indicated heightened inflammation levels and a positive genetic screen for ankylosing spondylitis. However, an MRI failed to show any vertebral fusion, leading the doctor to suggest waiting for another MRI in a year. I am suffering from relentless, debilitating pain that drastically limits my daily activities. Simple tasks such as dressing, shaving, or picking items off the floor require assistance. I often face severe nausea and lack of appetite, and extreme pain can trigger episodes of full-body tremors. I find myself at a loss, feeling desperate for change and not knowing where to seek further help. Any recommendations or advice would be greatly appreciated.
Answers (1)
8/14/2025, 2:21:15 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm truly sorry to hear about the overwhelming pain and challenges you've been facing. It sounds like you've been very proactive in seeking help, which is commendable. Your situation is complex, especially with a history of lumbar surgery, recent diagnoses, and ongoing pain.
Key Points:
You have persistent and debilitating back pain, potential indicators of ankylosing spondylitis, and widespread symptoms that severely impact your daily activities. Here’s what you can consider moving forward:
Explanation:
Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine, leading to pain and potentially reduced mobility. The presence of inflammation and genetic markers supports this possibility, even if there’s no current evidence of fusion on imaging. Your experiences of nausea, tremors, and significant restriction in daily activities could be symptoms of pain intensified by inflammation, which may require tailored approaches to management.
Next Steps:
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Regular Monitoring and Documentation:
- Keep a detailed journal of your pain levels, symptoms (including frequency of numbness, tremors, and tests), and any triggers. This documentation can be useful for healthcare providers and may help refine treatment options.
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Adjust Pain Management Strategies:
- Since traditional medications have not alleviated your pain, discuss with your pain management specialist the possibility of adjusting your medication regimen. Sometimes a combination of medications, including muscle relaxants, certain antidepressants, or alternative options like nerve blocks, may be beneficial.
- Consider integrating physical therapy designed for inflammatory back disorders. Gentle, guided movements can help maintain mobility and potentially reduce pain.
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Lifestyle Modifications:
- Engage in low-impact exercises, such as swimming or cycling, which can help keep your spine flexible without placing excessive strain on it.
- Maintain a balanced diet aimed at reducing inflammation (rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish).
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Holistic Support:
- Explore complementary therapies, such as acupuncture, yoga, or mindfulness techniques, to manage pain and stress levels effectively. These methods won’t replace medical treatment but may enhance your overall well-being.
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Seek a Multidisciplinary Approach:
- If you haven’t yet, consider consulting with a rheumatologist who specializes in inflammatory conditions or a multidisciplinary pain management center. They can provide a fresh perspective and potentially lead to a better-coordinated treatment plan.
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Patient Advocacy:
- Sometimes, getting a second opinion or a referral to a specialized clinic for ankylosing spondylitis may be beneficial. This could lead to more targeted treatment strategies.
Emotional Support:
It’s important to prioritize emotional and psychological support during this difficult time. Consider speaking with a counselor or joining support groups for individuals with chronic pain or autoimmune conditions. Connecting with others who face similar challenges can offer encouragement and practical tips.
It can feel daunting, but remember, you are not alone in this journey. Your health is a priority, and seeking the right combination of treatment and support can lead to improvement over time. Please feel free to reach out for further clarification on any of these points or additional support.
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