Diagnosis of lower back and hip pain Posted: 11-01-06 02:12am
I have had lower back pain most of my
life. The last year or so, the pain has
been chronic (every day) and after going
to see my chiropractor, he thinks it's
possible I have a disc problem in L-4.
The pain is not in my legs and is most
severe when I get up in the morning or
have been sitting for some time. The pain
lessens (but never goes away) as I go
throughout the day. Often times I find
relief when I sit in a leaning-forward
position while laying my head on a table.
Bending over hurts but moving my legs
doesn't. I often feel the pain through
the front pelvic area but it doesn't feel
like menstrual cramps (or the pain I
suffered from endrometriosis). The pain
is most severe during the night. In order
to turn over, I have to move myself with
my arms because it hurts too much to move
my hips. The pain is completely centered
in the lower back and hip area. At this
point in my life, I don't have insurance
and need some alternatives that are
affordable. I do know losing weight will
help... which I'm working on. Thanks for
any advice.
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DoctorAnswer
Doctor Answer
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Back Pain Answer A1769 Posted: 11-29-06 04:10am
According to the description you've given
about the pain you are experiencing, your
symptoms could be caused by nerve pain
caused by spondylosis. Spondylosis is a
chronic, degenerative disease of the
joints between vertebrae. Spondylotic
changes (discus hernia and osteophytes)
create pressure on the roots of the spinal
nerves causing pain, itching, numbness,
muscle weakness, or even paralyses.
Correct diagnosis in your case can be
established with an X-ray image of the
lumbar-sacral part of the vertebral
column. If it assumed that a disc-disorder
(discopaty) is present, then an MRI of the
vertebral column will be requested.
Painkillers may reduce the pain
temporarily, but long term treatment
includes physical therapy and even surgery
when necessary.
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