Back Pain Forum - Is back pain muscle related?

Conditions and Diseases > Back Pain Forum > Is back pain muscle related?

What structures make up the spine? We review basic spine anatomy here...before identifying potential causes of back pain....

Q: Is back pain muscle related?

asked by: DoctorQuestion on January 28th, 2007

I have had a weird pain in my back for the past three weeks. It's right-sided (near the spine) and very vague until I press on the spine in that area (the top of my waist in the back - possibly T12?). It's usually sore when I wake up, but stretches and naproxen sometimes help. I have been relatively inactive lately (no gym in months, lots of computer work) after years of regular exercise.

Is this likely muscle-related? If so, which muscle(s) should I be stretching and working on?

I'm only concerned about it since I leave for Europe in a few days and will be gone for several months.

Thanks for any suggestions!

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on February 5th, 2007

Back Pain Answer A2257

From the description you've provided about the pain you are experiencing near the spine that becomes more distinguishable on pressure, you could be experiencing muscle pain. Muscle pain can be due to injury (muscle extension), inflammation, overwork or muscle spasm (due to spine’s twisting disorders). The pain probably originates from the paravertebral muscles. You can visit your primary health doctor for a physical examination. An X-ray image of the vertebral column could be necessary, too, to exclude spine twisting disorders like scoliosis, lordosis or kiphosis. You may also consult an orthopedist, if necessary.

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