Spinal Concerns
My mother, who is 40 years old, has been dealing with spinal problems for as long as I can remember, including a herniated disc. Lately, her back pain has intensified to the point where she likens it to the pain of childbirth, accompanied by nerve issues that deeply worry me. She has reported experiencing an unusual feeling as if the entire side of her leg were wet, sharp nerve pain radiating to her toe, intermittent dizziness, a sensation of pressure in her ears along with a faint, strange sound like a "chainsaw," and just this evening, she experienced what she described as the most intense pain in both of her shoulders that she has ever felt, particularly in her acromioclavicular joint. While it's been clear for a while that she requires spinal surgery, our state insurance policy won't approve it until she completes a specified amount of physical therapy first. Given that we live an hour away from the nearest city and have only one vehicle, we face considerable challenges. I would be extremely grateful for any guidance or suggestions, as I feel powerless to make her visit a doctor.
Answers (1)
9/5/2025, 10:40:37 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like your mother is experiencing significant pain and distress due to her spinal issues, and it's understandable to feel overwhelmed in this situation. Given her symptoms—including intense back and shoulder pain, nerve-related sensations, and dizziness—it’s crucial to address both her pain management and the underlying issues.
Main Points:
- Severe Symptoms: Your mother's symptoms indicate a need for prompt assessment, particularly the new onset of severe shoulder pain and changes in nerve sensations.
- Management Strategies: There are some self-care and management strategies she can start immediately to help alleviate discomfort while preparing for therapy.
Explanation:
The combination of back pain, nerve symptoms, and their impact on her daily life suggests significant spinal and perhaps neurological involvement. The sensation of her leg feeling wet, sharp pains radiating down her leg, and shoulder pain could indicate that the herniated disc may be affecting nearby nerves or spinal structures.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Pain Management:
- Encourage her to use heat therapy (like a warm towel or heating pad) for her back and shoulders to help reduce muscle tension and pain.
- If she tolerates it, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage the pain (ensure she has no contraindications for these medications).
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Physical Therapy Preparation:
- Begin gentle stretching and low-impact exercises that she can do at home if tolerated. Focus on neck, back, and shoulder mobility. You can find beginner exercises for spinal health on reputable health websites, like Mayo Clinic.
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Symptom Tracking:
- Help her track her symptoms daily—this includes pain levels, times when symptoms worsen, and any new sensations. This documentation can be useful when she eventually sees a healthcare provider.
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Communication with Insurance/Provider:
- It may help to contact her insurance or the clinic where she may receive physical therapy. Sometimes, discussing the urgency of her condition may lead to options for expedited care or alternate methods of meeting the prerequisite for surgery.
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Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Encourage her to maintain a good posture throughout daily activities and while sitting, as this can minimize strain on her spine.
While these steps may provide temporary relief and prepare her for physical therapy, it’s essential to seek medical help for an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan as soon as possible. Her symptoms warrant attention, and you can advocate for her even in a difficult situation. Stay strong, and please feel free to reach out for more information or support.
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