Persistent Pain Over the Last 18 Months - Increasing and Spreading
For the past 18 months, I have been grappling with persistent pain, and I find myself at a loss for what steps to take next. At 29 years old, my discomfort began in July 2024. Initially localized to the right side of my back, I attributed it to poor sleeping positions or perhaps muscle tightness, but the issue failed to improve. Over time, the pain has gradually spread to my knees, shoulders, underarms, and most recently, my ribcage. The sensation is a dull, deep ache—it's not debilitating, yet it remains quite uncomfortable. Last year, I underwent a comprehensive blood examination that returned normal results, including FBC, thyroid levels, immune markers, C-reactive protein, and rheumatoid factors. An MRI scan of my cervical and thoracic spine was also normal. My medical history is otherwise unremarkable aside from experiencing migraines every few months; an MRI in November 2022 was conducted to rule out serious conditions and only indicated some sinusitis. I've observed that my arms tire quickly when carrying items such as shopping bags, and I've also noticed a tendency for my joints to pop more frequently. I sought the help of a physiotherapist, but that did not lead to any improvements. While the pain doesn’t disturb my sleep, lying down sometimes seems to exacerbate it. Upon waking, I often feel as if I've engaged in an intense full-body workout, despite not having performed any strenuous activity. The only remedy that appears to provide temporary relief is the use of a hot compress. I feel uncertain about the underlying cause of these symptoms, and my general practitioner is equally perplexed. The lengthy duration of my pain leads me to worry that it could indicate a more serious issue. Being part of the healthcare field, I understand that normal test results ought to offer some reassurance, yet the lack of clarity is incredibly frustrating. I would greatly appreciate any insights or recommendations regarding potential causes or specific specialists I should consider consulting, as my GP seems unsure about the next steps. Thank you for any assistance you can provide.
Answers (1)
2/5/2026, 1:00:52 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear that you've been experiencing persistent pain over the last 18 months. It's understandable to feel frustrated and uncertain, especially since pain can vary significantly in its causes and effects. Your symptoms and their spread, alongside normal test results, do suggest that while the situation is concerning, it may not indicate a serious underlying condition at this time.
Explanation:
The pain you're experiencing could arise from several possibilities. Given your normal blood work and MRI results, conditions like inflammatory diseases or structural issues might be less likely. Instead, chronic pain syndromes (such as fibromyalgia) could be considered, particularly since you also experience fatigue and a sensation of tiredness in your arms. Muscle tightness due to posture or stress might also contribute. Stress or anxiety can also manifest in physical symptoms, affecting pain levels.
Next Steps:
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Keep a Pain Journal: Track your pain including its intensity, location, triggers, and relief methods. This can help identify patterns and provide valuable information for specialists.
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Reconsider Physiotherapy: Since it hasn’t yielded results yet, consider a physical therapist who specializes in chronic pain or myofascial pain syndrome. Techniques like manual therapy, stretching, and specific strengthening exercises might help.
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Explore Pain Management Techniques: Besides hot compresses, you might look into other remedies like:
- Gentle stretching or yoga to build flexibility and reduce tension.
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing exercises, which may help manage pain perception.
- Over-the-counter options like acetaminophen or NSAIDs (if suitable for you) for pain relief.
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Consult Additional Specialists: If symptoms persist, consider seeking a rheumatologist to explore chronic pain syndromes or consider a neurologist if your migraines worsen or change. A pain management specialist might also find alternative treatments effective.
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Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular gentle exercise can improve overall well-being. Incorporating low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, or cycling while ensuring you listen to your body can be beneficial. Monitor how your body responds.
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Diet and Hydration: Focus on a balanced diet and ensure you’re staying hydrated, as nutritional deficiencies can sometimes exacerbate pain symptoms.
If your pain changes significantly, intensifies, or if you experience new symptoms (like numbness, weakness, or significant fatigue), it’s important to seek immediate medical evaluation to rule out serious issues. Remember, while it may seem daunting, a multi-faceted approach often helps to manage chronic pain effectively. Please keep me updated on your journey, and I'm here for any further questions or support.
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