Seeking Guidance for Chronic Pain and Nerve Issues
Greetings, I'll be brief. I'm a 34-year-old female facing persistent back discomfort, primarily concentrated in the lower region. My medical history includes an x-ray of the upper back along with both an x-ray and MRI for the lower back. Recently, I received injections in my lower back, as well as previous treatments at the base of my neck stemming from a car accident I had back in 2011. I experience numbness and pain affecting the entire right side of my body, and occasionally, my left leg and foot also feel this discomfort. When I inquired with my Nurse Practitioner regarding why my Primary Care Provider didn’t proceed with the MRI despite recommendations after my upper back x-ray, she explained that upper back pain is generally more related to nerve complications. Similarly, the challenges in my lower back are also attributed to nerve issues. Yet, I find it puzzling that I continue to be referred to orthopedic specialists rather than a neurologist, as this seems to suggest a nerve-related condition. Her recommendation was to consult with the orthopedist and wait for the next steps. It’s worth mentioning that my upper back has troubled me for 14 years, while the lower back issues have persisted for about 4 to 5 years. The numbness and pain in my leg and foot started around the same time as my accident in 2011. Recently, I’ve come across information indicating that my back problems might be linked to PCOS, but since I don’t meet all the criteria explicitly, medical professionals are hesitant to make a definitive diagnosis. I'm reaching out for advice on the type of specialist I should consult and what specific tests I should request. I feel quite overwhelmed at this point. The most substantial relief I’ve found is from Lidocaine patches, which are ineffective and often don’t adhere. I hesitate to ask for more assistance due to a fear of being perceived as exaggerating my symptoms. The pain often makes standing and walking a challenge, and I worry when I suddenly lose feeling in my limbs while driving, or when I experience debilitating pain in my neck, back, arm, or legs. Doctors acknowledge that something seems amiss, yet they indicate that it is not urgent enough to warrant major concern at this time.
Answers (1)
9/11/2025, 4:40:43 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel overwhelmed and frustrated with the ongoing pain and numbness you're experiencing, especially after several years of dealing with these issues. Your symptoms, particularly as they relate to numbness and pain across your body, indeed suggest a potential nerve-related problem.
Summary of Key Points:
- Chronic Pain and Nerve Symptoms: Your history and current symptoms may require a more comprehensive neurological assessment.
- Need for Further Evaluation: Considering your extensive history and current symptoms, the involvement of a neurologist might be beneficial.
- Symptom Management: It's important to seek effective relief methods.
Explanation:
Chronic back pain and associated nerve discomfort can arise from various underlying conditions. The numbness on one side of your body, alongside issues with your legs, points to potential neurological involvement, which may not be fully addressed by orthopedic specialists alone.
Your mention of PCOS raises an interesting dimension; although it typically presents with hormonal and metabolic issues, some studies suggest it could be linked to musculoskeletal pain in certain cases. However, your symptoms do not directly align with PCOS alone.
Next Steps:
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Consult a Neurologist: Ask for a referral to a neurologist who specializes in pain management or peripheral nerve issues. They can evaluate your symptoms in-depth and may suggest further testing such as nerve conduction studies or additional imaging, such as an MRI of your entire spine.
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Request Specific Tests: During your visit to the neurologist, discuss the possibility of:
- Electromyography (EMG): To gauge nerve and muscle function.
- Nerve conduction studies: To assess the integrity of your nerves.
- Full spine MRI: To investigate for any compression or anomalies in the spinal cord and nerves.
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Simplifying Pain Management: Considering your experience with Lidocaine patches, explore alternatives by discussing:
- Prescription topical treatments (e.g., analgesic creams).
- Physical therapy: Ask about targeted exercises that may help improve function and decrease pain.
- Medication: Consider medications (e.g., nerve pain medications like gabapentin) that could specifically address your discomfort.
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Keep a Symptom Journal: Maintain a detailed record of your symptoms, triggers, and any changes to help your healthcare team better understand the pattern and severity of your pain.
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Communicate Openly: Don't hesitate to express your concerns and the impact these symptoms have on your daily life to your doctors. This communication is crucial to ensuring you receive the support and treatment you need.
Taking action with these steps can help clarify your diagnosis and guide you towards more effective management strategies. Remember, it's essential to advocate for your health: your symptoms are valid and deserve attention.
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