Exploring Possible Causes of Back Numbness
I'm a 17-year-old who weighs 180 pounds, and I've been experiencing some unusual sensations in my back since about September or October of last year. The tingling occurs intermittently in my middle to upper back, specifically referred to by my doctor as the thoracic region. It wasn't until the tingling progressed to a feeling of numbness, roughly two months later, that I decided to visit a doctor. I consulted a neurologist who recommended undergoing an MRI and an EEG. While the EEG yielded normal results, the MRI was mostly unremarkable as well. However, the neurologist did mention that two of the discs in my spine appeared somewhat thin, although I couldn't discern much from the images myself since I'm not trained in interpreting them. Subsequently, I was referred to a spine specialist. Our consultation lasted only a few minutes. He indicated that there seemed to be no evidence of a pinched nerve and inquired if I would like a prescription for pain relief. Since I occasionally experience a burning sensation, I agreed, and he prescribed Gabapentin. My mother raised the issue regarding the thin discs the neurologist had mentioned, but the specialist was vague in his response—he didn’t confirm that they looked thin, nor did he dismiss it. We also discussed that degenerative disc disease is present in my family history, affecting my grandmother and aunt. My mother asked whether my condition could be related to that, yet again, the doctor did not provide a definitive answer. That appointment occurred back in January, and my back remains numb. In fact, there’s a slight increase in the numbness, though it only affects a smaller area. After taking Gabapentin for about a month, I stopped due to my mother's concerns—some relatives had advised against prolonged use unless completely necessary. Occasionally, the tingling returns, mostly on the left side of my spine with minor sensations on the right. When tingling occurs, it’s generally near the right side, but there have been instances of sensitivity in my lower right back. I don't feel excessively worried at this stage because the doctor appeared relatively unconcerned. Nevertheless, I'm eager to understand the underlying cause of these symptoms. Is it feasible for a pinched nerve to exist despite not being visible on the MRI? Could this condition stem from degenerative disc disease, even at my young age? My grandmother and aunt didn't exhibit symptoms until they were in their thirties. What other potential issues could be causing this numbness?
Answers (1)
9/10/2025, 12:11:12 AM
OpenHealth AI
The sensations you're experiencing in your thoracic region, including numbness and tingling, can indeed be concerning, especially considering your family history of degenerative disc disease. It's good to know you've consulted with both a neurologist and a spine specialist, but I understand that you'd like clarity on possible causes and next steps.
Summary of Main Points:
- Your symptoms of back numbness and tingling may not be caused by a pinched nerve or severe disc issues, as indicated by recent specialist evaluations.
- Family history of degenerative disc disease might be a contributing factor, although it's less common for individuals your age to have significant issues.
- Ongoing monitoring and self-management strategies can help provide relief and reduce concerns.
Explanation:
- Thin Discs: The mention of thin discs may indicate a degree of disc degeneration, which can sometimes lead to symptoms like you describe, even without clear nerve compression. However, it's essential to remember that not all disc issues result in nerve symptoms, especially if the MRI didn't show significant problems.
- Nerve-related Issues: While it's possible for issues like nerve irritation to occur without being visible on imaging tests, the absence of neurological deficits during your assessments is reassuring.
- Genetics and Age: Degenerative disc disease typically progresses with age and may not fully manifest until later in life. That said, genetics can influence the onset of symptoms.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, especially any changes in frequency or intensity. Consider noting what activities or positions worsen or relieve the numbness and tingling.
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Self-Care Practices:
- Posture: Focus on maintaining good posture, especially while sitting for long periods. Ergonomic chairs or standing desks may help.
- Regular Exercise: Engage in gentle exercises that strengthen your back and core muscles, like swimming or stretching. Consult a physical therapist for tailored exercises.
- Heat/Cold Therapy: Use heat pads to relax tense muscles and cold packs to help with discomfort.
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Pain Management: If you feel pain or further discomfort, discuss alternatives to Gabapentin with a healthcare provider. They may recommend over-the-counter pain relief methods or other non-medication therapies.
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Follow-Up Appointments: Consider scheduling a follow-up appointment with your spine specialist or neurologist to discuss ongoing symptoms and revisit the thin discs concern. Ask specific questions about degenerative disc disease risks at your age and any new tests or therapy options.
Your feelings of reassurance despite your symptoms suggest that you're managing this situation thoughtfully. Continue to be proactive about your health, and reach out for support when needed. If things worsen or you develop new symptoms, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice.
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