[28F] With back pain and leg tingling for 3 months

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

• Sciatica: This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve, which runs from your lower back through your hips and buttocks and down each leg, is compressed or irritated. This can cause pain, tingling, and numbness that radiates from your lower back down your leg and into your foot. The numbness in your big toe and the tingling and shocking sensations you described are consistent with sciatica.

  • Treatment: Treatment for sciatica often includes physical therapy, pain relief medications, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve the pressure on the nerve.

• Spondylosis: This is a general term for age-related wear and tear affecting the spinal disks. It can lead to the compression of nerves, causing pain and numbness in the back and legs.

  • Treatment: Treatment may include physical therapy, medications for pain and inflammation, and lifestyle changes such as exercise and weight management.

• Spondylolisthesis: This condition occurs when one of the vertebrae in your spine slips out of place onto the vertebra below it. This can cause back pain and nerve compression, leading to symptoms like those you described.

  • Treatment: Treatment options include physical therapy, medications, and in some cases, surgery to stabilize the spine.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to help manage your symptoms:

1. Change Positions Frequently: Since you mentioned that changing positions helps, try to avoid staying in one position for too long. Alternate between sitting, standing, and lying down.
2. Physical Therapy: Consider seeing a physical therapist who can guide you through exercises to strengthen your back and improve your posture.
3. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help manage pain and inflammation.
4. Heat and Cold Therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.
5. Stay Active: Gentle exercises like walking or swimming can help keep your muscles strong and flexible.
6. Diet and Nutrition: Ensure you are getting enough vitamins and minerals, especially B vitamins, which support nerve health. Consider taking a multivitamin if your diet is lacking.
7. Use MDandMe: You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track your progress, get insights, and share your medical notes with your healthcare provider.

What you should look out for

It's important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

• Severe Pain: If your pain becomes severe and unmanageable with over-the-counter medications.
• Loss of Bowel or Bladder Control: This could indicate a more serious condition called cauda equina syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.
• Increased Weakness: If you notice increased weakness in your leg or foot.
• Persistent Numbness: If the numbness in your toe or leg becomes constant and does not improve.

Remember, while these suggestions can help manage your symptoms, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.