Lower back pain while sitting with no imagiologic evidence
HazelSummers posted:
Hello everyone.
I've been facing a problem almost a year now and I'm starting to feel desperate because no doctor seems to find out what is wrong with me.
About a minute after sitting, I start to feel pain on the lower part of my back, both in the right and left sides. If I remain without moving, after a while the pain starts to travel slowly upwards (it doesn't extend to my thighs and legs). If I move slightly to one side or another, the pain softens but it doesn't go away. The moment I stand, the pain disappears.
Generally, the pain is worst at the end of the day.
It also important to notice that this happens most of times I sit. However, there are some rare occasions that when I sit, the pain that I feel has a lower intensity than usual or I even don't feel any pain at all.
The pain started on a day, when I was sitting on my desk chair. I just remember that one moment I was fine, and the next one I started to feel pain on the lower part of my back and it wouldn't go away until I decided to stand up. Afterwards, almost every single time I sat the pain returned, over and over again.
As a 19-year-old student I have to spend my everyday sitting either in classes or studying, and this has become a major problem in my life.
I have already done X-rays, CT scan and MRI and all of those didn't reveal any issue with disc or spine.
I've been strengthening my back muscles for 8 months now with pilate exercises (because at one point the doctors thought I had a muscular strain), but the pain is not better at all.
In the meanwhile, I have been taking several painkillers (paracetamol + NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants. Not all of them work, and the ones that do work, have a temporary effect and don't take all the pain away.
I don't know what else to do.
Please do comment on this. Any help would be greatly appreciated!
3 Replies |Watch This Discussion | Report This| Share this:Lower back pain while sitting with no imagiologic evidence<br />Hello everyone.<br />I've been facing a problem almost a year now and I'm starting to feel desperate because no doctor seems to find out what is wrong with me.<br /> <br />About a minute after sitting, I start to feel pain on the lower part of my back, both in the right and left sides. If I remain without moving, after a while the pain starts to travel slowly upwards (it doesn't extend to my thighs and legs). If I move slightly to one side or another, the pain softens but it doesn't go away. The moment I stand, the pain disappears.<br />Generally, the pain is worst at the end of the day.<br />It also important to notice that this happens most of times I sit. However, there are some rare occasions that when I sit, the pain that I feel has a lower intensity than usual or I even don't feel any pain at all.<br /> <br />The pain started on a day, when I was sitting on my desk chair. I just remember that one moment I was fine, and the next one I started to feel pain on the lower part of my back and it wouldn't go away until I decided to stand up. Afterwards, almost every single time I sat the pain returned, over and over again. <br />As a 19-year-old student I have to spend my everyday sitting either in classes or studying, and this has become a major problem in my life.<br /> <br />I have already done X-rays, CT scan and MRI and all of those didn't reveal any issue with disc or spine.<br />I've been strengthening my back muscles for 8 months now with pilate exercises (because at one point the doctors thought I had a muscular strain), but the pain is not better at all.<br />In the meanwhile, I have been taking several painkillers (paracetamol + NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants. Not all of them work, and the ones that do work, have a temporary effect and don't take all the pain away. <br /> <br /> <br />I don't know what else to do.<br />Please do comment on this. Any help would be greatly appreciated!<br /> <br />
bj1208 responded:
Hi HazelSummers - welcome to the support group -
first let us know what type of doctors you have seen.
second when you had the CT Scan and MRI did they do this with and without contrast (dye). Having the tests done with/without contrast generally shows more than if not. Also in regards to the X-ray. Did they just do a normal X-ray (laying flat on table)? Having a flex/extension X-ray may show more than a regular X-ray. This is done by bending forward and bending backwards and having the x-ray taken.
third - when you sit in a chair are you sitting with one leg bent under you? if so, please stop this as this does cause pressure on the spine and sometimes twisting/bending etc can cause severe spine problems.
Since you are dealing with back/spine issues you should see either a Orthopedic Spine Specialist or Neurosurgeon Spine Specialist. They are the only ones that can accurately read MRI/CT Scan film reports. Once they have examined you and reviewed the films they can let you know what the diagnosis is and what type(s) of treatment options are best for you.
There could be a number of reasons this is happening. Facet Joint issues, disc(s) bulges etc. See link to website:
http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/what-back-pain
this is a good website where you can research a wide variety of spine issues.
Please let us know a little more. the more we know the more we can help~~
first let us know what type of doctors you have seen.
second when you had the CT Scan and MRI did they do this with and without contrast (dye). Having the tests done with/without contrast generally shows more than if not. Also in regards to the X-ray. Did they just do a normal X-ray (laying flat on table)? Having a flex/extension X-ray may show more than a regular X-ray. This is done by bending forward and bending backwards and having the x-ray taken.
third - when you sit in a chair are you sitting with one leg bent under you? if so, please stop this as this does cause pressure on the spine and sometimes twisting/bending etc can cause severe spine problems.
Since you are dealing with back/spine issues you should see either a Orthopedic Spine Specialist or Neurosurgeon Spine Specialist. They are the only ones that can accurately read MRI/CT Scan film reports. Once they have examined you and reviewed the films they can let you know what the diagnosis is and what type(s) of treatment options are best for you.
There could be a number of reasons this is happening. Facet Joint issues, disc(s) bulges etc. See link to website:
http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/what-back-pain
this is a good website where you can research a wide variety of spine issues.
Please let us know a little more. the more we know the more we can help~~
~~ Click on my name or picture and read my story ~~
Take care ~~ God Bless ~~
~~ Joy ~~
Take care ~~ God Bless ~~
~~ Joy ~~
Report This| Share this:Lower back pain while sitting with no imagiologic evidenceHi HazelSummers - welcome to the support group -<br /><br />first let us know what type of doctors you have seen. <br /><br />second when you had the CT Scan and MRI did they do this with and without contrast (dye). Having the tests done with/without contrast generally shows more than if not. Also in regards to the X-ray. Did they just do a normal X-ray (laying flat on table)? Having a flex/extension X-ray may show more than a regular X-ray. This is done by bending forward and bending backwards and having the x-ray taken.<br /><br />third - when you sit in a chair are you sitting with one leg bent under you? if so, please stop this as this does cause pressure on the spine and sometimes twisting/bending etc can cause severe spine problems.<br /><br />Since you are dealing with back/spine issues you should see either a Orthopedic Spine Specialist or Neurosurgeon Spine Specialist. They are the only ones that can accurately read MRI/CT Scan film reports. Once they have examined you and reviewed the films they can let you know what the diagnosis is and what type(s) of treatment options are best for you.<br /><br />There could be a number of reasons this is happening. Facet Joint issues, disc(s) bulges etc. See link to website:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/what-back-pain">http://www.spineuniverse.com/conditions/back-pain/what-back-pain</a><br /><br />this is a good website where you can research a wide variety of spine issues.<br /><br />Please let us know a little more. the more we know the more we can help~~
HazelSummers replied to bj1208's response:
Hello bj1208.
Thank you so much for your prompt response!
The CT Scan and MRI I did was without contrast.
Regarding to the X-rays, I did a normal X-ray standing up, a flex/extension X-ray and a side bending X-ray (to the left and right sides).
I have seen two physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation) and three orthopedic spine specialists (one orthopaedic surgeon, one orthopedist and neurologist and one orthopedist and pain management specialist).
In the beginning when they were trying to find where the pain came from, it was discovered that I had a dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis and a sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis, as well as a rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine. However, all doctors claimed that the scoliosis isn't the cause of my pain. And I strongly believe that they are right.
There is also no neurologic damage in the spine.
When sitting in a chair I don't usually bend one leg under. When the pain starts, I just lean to one side or another. What I do in classes is leaning forward and placing my elbows on the table (this is the only way I can tolerate being sat down, as it diminishes the intensity of the pain).
If you have any ideas please share them.
I feel sad after reading your story. Get better soon.
Thank you so much for your prompt response!
The CT Scan and MRI I did was without contrast.
Regarding to the X-rays, I did a normal X-ray standing up, a flex/extension X-ray and a side bending X-ray (to the left and right sides).
I have seen two physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation) and three orthopedic spine specialists (one orthopaedic surgeon, one orthopedist and neurologist and one orthopedist and pain management specialist).
In the beginning when they were trying to find where the pain came from, it was discovered that I had a dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis and a sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis, as well as a rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine. However, all doctors claimed that the scoliosis isn't the cause of my pain. And I strongly believe that they are right.
There is also no neurologic damage in the spine.
When sitting in a chair I don't usually bend one leg under. When the pain starts, I just lean to one side or another. What I do in classes is leaning forward and placing my elbows on the table (this is the only way I can tolerate being sat down, as it diminishes the intensity of the pain).
If you have any ideas please share them.
I feel sad after reading your story. Get better soon.
Report This| Share this:Lower back pain while sitting with no imagiologic evidenceHello bj1208.<br />Thank you so much for your prompt response!<br /> <br />The CT Scan and MRI I did was without contrast.<br />Regarding to the X-rays, I did a normal X-ray standing up, a flex/extension X-ray and a side bending X-ray (to the left and right sides).<br /> <br />I have seen two physiatrists (physical medicine and rehabilitation) and three orthopedic spine specialists (one orthopaedic surgeon, one orthopedist and neurologist and one orthopedist and pain management specialist).<br /> <br />In the beginning when they were trying to find where the pain came from, it was discovered that I had a dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis and a sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis, as well as a rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine. However, all doctors claimed that the scoliosis isn't the cause of my pain. And I strongly believe that they are right.<br />There is also no neurologic damage in the spine.<br /> <br />When sitting in a chair I don't usually bend one leg under. When the pain starts, I just lean to one side or another. What I do in classes is leaning forward and placing my elbows on the table (this is the only way I can tolerate being sat down, as it diminishes the intensity of the pain).<br /> <br />If you have any ideas please share them.<br /> <br />I feel sad after reading your story. Get better soon.<br />
bj1208 replied to HazelSummers's response:
Hi again, HazelSummers -
In regards to my story - I try to share what all I have been thru - I have accepted all that is going on with me and this is permanent - nothing that can be done except treat the pains and watch my back for further problems that may arise. I'm not bitter as I know this was the only way to correct and stabilize my spine. I have a wonderful hubby and great family support!!
Anyways - I don't know that much about scoliosis though I did have a best friend growing up that had it and wore a back brace til she reached teenage years.
I did some research and found these sites:
for: dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/scoliosis/scoliosis-what-you-need-know
and for: sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis
http://www.spina-forum.com/index/sf_pag_spine-conditions/sf_pag_spine-conditions-scoliosis.htm
and for: rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine
http://www.espalda.org/english/divulgativa/dolor/causas/alteraciones/rectificaciones.asp
It would seem to me that with all this going on that it may be causing some back pains but I may be wrong.
It looks like you have covered quite a few areas of spine specialist and pain management specialist - PHYSIATRIST are generally great for treating the underlying pains and not the symptoms. I have been seeing one for 4 yrs now and they have taken great care of me.
Questions - have you seen a spine specialist that specializes in scoliosis only? is there a big university hospital near you? a university hospital normally is a teaching hospital and they usually have more and better treatment options.
I do hope and pray that you can find an accurate diagnosis for the pains - keep us posted~~
In regards to my story - I try to share what all I have been thru - I have accepted all that is going on with me and this is permanent - nothing that can be done except treat the pains and watch my back for further problems that may arise. I'm not bitter as I know this was the only way to correct and stabilize my spine. I have a wonderful hubby and great family support!!
Anyways - I don't know that much about scoliosis though I did have a best friend growing up that had it and wore a back brace til she reached teenage years.
I did some research and found these sites:
for: dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis
http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/scoliosis/scoliosis-what-you-need-know
and for: sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis
http://www.spina-forum.com/index/sf_pag_spine-conditions/sf_pag_spine-conditions-scoliosis.htm
and for: rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine
http://www.espalda.org/english/divulgativa/dolor/causas/alteraciones/rectificaciones.asp
It would seem to me that with all this going on that it may be causing some back pains but I may be wrong.
It looks like you have covered quite a few areas of spine specialist and pain management specialist - PHYSIATRIST are generally great for treating the underlying pains and not the symptoms. I have been seeing one for 4 yrs now and they have taken great care of me.
Questions - have you seen a spine specialist that specializes in scoliosis only? is there a big university hospital near you? a university hospital normally is a teaching hospital and they usually have more and better treatment options.
I do hope and pray that you can find an accurate diagnosis for the pains - keep us posted~~
~~ Click on my name or picture and read my story ~~
Take care ~~ God Bless ~~
~~ Joy ~~
Take care ~~ God Bless ~~
~~ Joy ~~
Report This| Share this:Lower back pain while sitting with no imagiologic evidenceHi again, HazelSummers -<br /><br />In regards to my story - I try to share what all I have been thru - I have accepted all that is going on with me and this is permanent - nothing that can be done except treat the pains and watch my back for further problems that may arise. I'm not bitter as I know this was the only way to correct and stabilize my spine. I have a wonderful hubby and great family support!!<br /><br />Anyways - I don't know that much about scoliosis though I did have a best friend growing up that had it and wore a back brace til she reached teenage years.<br /><br />I did some research and found these sites:<br /><br />for: dextroconvex thoracic scoliosis<br /><br /><a href="http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/scoliosis/scoliosis-what-you-need-know">http://www.spine-health.com/conditions/scoliosis/scoliosis-what-you-need-know</a><br /><br />and for: sinistro-convex thoraco-lumbar scoliosis<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.spina-forum.com/index/sf_pag_spine-conditions/sf_pag_spine-conditions-scoliosis.htm">http://www.spina-forum.com/index/sf_pag_spine-conditions/sf_pag_spine-conditions-scoliosis.htm</a><br /><br /><br />and for: rectification of the thoracic and lumbar spine<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.espalda.org/english/divulgativa/dolor/causas/alteraciones/rectificaciones.asp">http://www.espalda.org/english/divulgativa/dolor/causas/alteraciones/rectificaciones.asp</a><br /><br /><br />It would seem to me that with all this going on that it may be causing some back pains but I may be wrong.<br /><br /><br />It looks like you have covered quite a few areas of spine specialist and pain management specialist - PHYSIATRIST are generally great for treating the underlying pains and not the symptoms. I have been seeing one for 4 yrs now and they have taken great care of me.<br /><br /><br />Questions - have you seen a spine specialist that specializes in scoliosis only? is there a big university hospital near you? a university hospital normally is a teaching hospital and they usually have more and better treatment options.<br /><br /><br />I do hope and pray that you can find an accurate diagnosis for the pains - keep us posted~~
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