[21F] Experiencing persistent upper back and neck pain
Patient Description
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Arora's Assessment
What might be happening
Based on the information you've provided, here are a few possibilities:
-
Muscle Strain or Sprain: This is a common cause of back pain, especially if the pain is associated with certain movements or positions. It can occur due to overuse, poor posture, or a sudden awkward movement.
- Treatment typically involves rest, over-the-counter pain relievers, and physical therapy exercises.
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Herniated Disc: This occurs when the soft material inside a disc in your spine pushes out through a crack in the outer casing. This can irritate nearby nerves and result in pain, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.
- Treatment can range from physical therapy and medication to surgery in severe cases.
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Spinal Stenosis: This is a narrowing of the spaces within your spine, which can put pressure on the nerves that travel through the spine. It is often caused by wear-and-tear changes in the spine related to osteoarthritis.
- Treatment can include medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
What you can do
- Try to rest your back and avoid activities that make your pain worse.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, may help.
- Gentle stretching exercises can sometimes help with back pain. However, it's important not to push yourself too hard and to stop if any exercise increases your pain.
- Applying heat or cold to the affected area may also provide some relief.
What you should look out for
Please seek immediate medical attention if:
- Your pain is severe or doesn't improve with rest.
- You have pain after a fall or an injury.
- Your back pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss.
- You have weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
- You have new bowel or bladder problems.
Remember, I'm an AI and this advice is based on the information you've provided. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.
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7 mo ago