Chronic Back Pain Concerns
Hello, I’m a 21-year-old woman. About a month ago, I suddenly experienced intense pain in my middle to lower back that was severe enough to require a trip to the emergency room with my mother's help. Fortunately, while we waited for the diagnostic results, the discomfort began to diminish. Tests including blood analysis, a urine test, and a CT scan all returned negative results. The medical team suggested that the pain might stem from a muscle spasm or a pinched nerve. After that incident, I felt fine for some time. However, in the last few weeks, that same discomfort has returned. It occurs intermittently every few nights, not consistently, but when it does strike, the intensity wakes me up, often leaving me in tears. The pain is mostly concentrated in the mid to lower back area; however, I’ve also been aware of a sensation of pressure in my abdomen while lying down, which feels like something is shifting inside me. Does anyone have insights into what might be causing this? I'm hesitant to revisit the hospital only to be told that nothing is wrong again, given my aversion to needles and hospital visits.
Answers (1)
8/25/2025, 6:12:10 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you are experiencing recurring and intense back pain, which can be both distressing and frustrating, especially after initial tests showed no significant issues. Your symptoms could be related to a variety of factors like muscle spasms, postural issues, or nerve compression, and the added sensation of pressure in your abdomen could indicate a separate but related concern.
Here's a more detailed look at your situation and some actionable steps:
Understanding Your Symptoms
- Muscle Spasms: These can cause sudden, intense pain and may recur due to overuse, strain, or poor posture.
- Pinched Nerve: This can lead to intermittent pain and might be aggravated by certain positions or movements.
- Pressure Sensation: While this may or may not be directly related to your back pain, it’s worth noting. Sometimes, abdominal discomfort can arise from back issues due to interconnected anatomy or from gastrointestinal causes.
Next Steps to Consider
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Monitor your Pain: Keep a detailed record of when the pain occurs (time of day, activities you were doing, position you were in, etc.) to identify any patterns or triggers.
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Practice Gentle Stretching and Strengthening: Consider incorporating gentle stretches for your back and core into your daily routine. Yoga or Pilates can be beneficial for back health by improving flexibility and strength. Focus on movements that help relax your back muscles.
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Posture Check: Pay attention to your posture throughout the day. Sitting or standing for long periods in poor alignment can lead to pain. Ergonomic adjustments to your workspace can help.
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Heat Therapy: When pain strikes, applying a heat pack can help relax tense muscles and improve blood flow to the area.
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Relaxation Techniques: Consider deep breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation to help manage pain and stress.
When to Seek Further Help
If your pain continues to disrupt your sleep to the point of tears, or if you experience additional symptoms (like worsening abdominal sensitivity, numbness, or changes in bowel/bladder function), it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider. You deserve proper treatment and peace of mind, so consider discussing these aspects with a physician. You could discuss less invasive options like physical therapy or pain management before considering more extensive testing.
While I understand your hesitance due to past experiences, remember that persistent symptoms warrant thorough investigation to ensure your health and well-being. It’s important to advocate for yourself to find a provider who respects your concerns and preferences.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions, and I hope you find relief soon!
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