[43F] Experiencing severe pain and mobility issues after falls

Patient Description

A 43-year-old female reports severe and constant pain, rated 8 or 9 out of 10, which began after a fall down steps on Monday and was exacerbated by a subsequent fall from a ladder last night. The pain is described as both constant and sharp with any movement, significantly impairing the patient's ability to move, walk, sit, reach, or even roll over. There is also reported bruising on the buttocks. Additionally, the patient experiences numbness and tingling in the right arm, affecting all fingers except the thumb, and pain shooting down the back of the right leg. The patient has a medical history of spinal conditions diagnosed after an accident last year, including injuries to three discs in the neck and three in the back, as well as sacralization in the L5 vertebra, leading to fusion of the spine and pelvis. The patient is not currently on any medications and has an allergy to iodine.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you provided, you may be experiencing the following:

  • Acute Back Injury: Given your recent falls and the severity of your pain, it's possible that you've sustained an acute injury to your back. This could include a sprain, strain, or even a fracture. The numbness and tingling you're experiencing in your right arm and leg could be related to nerve compression or damage.

    • Treatment typically involves rest, pain management, and physical therapy. However, if a fracture is suspected, immediate medical attention is needed.
  • Exacerbation of Pre-existing Spinal Conditions: Your pre-existing spinal conditions, including injuries to three discs in your neck and three in your back, as well as sacrilization in your L5, could be contributing to your current symptoms. The recent falls could have exacerbated these conditions.

    • Treatment typically involves managing symptoms and preventing further injury. This may include pain management, physical therapy, and possibly surgery.

What you can do

Given the severity of your pain and the numbness and tingling you're experiencing, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. This will allow a healthcare professional to evaluate your condition and determine the appropriate treatment. In the meantime, try to rest and avoid movements that increase your pain.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

  • Your pain becomes unbearable
  • You experience loss of bowel or bladder control
  • The numbness or tingling in your right arm and leg worsens
  • You develop weakness in your arms or legs

Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a doctor. Always consult with a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment.

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10 mo ago

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People Also Ask


What are the potential causes of numbness and tingling in the arm and leg after a fall?

Numbness and tingling in the arm and leg after a fall can be caused by nerve compression or damage, which may occur due to swelling, a herniated disc, or a fracture affecting the spinal cord or nerves.


How can pre-existing spinal conditions be affected by new injuries?

Pre-existing spinal conditions can be exacerbated by new injuries, leading to increased pain, inflammation, and further nerve compression. This can worsen symptoms and potentially lead to new complications.


What are the signs that indicate a back injury might be serious and require immediate medical attention?

Signs that a back injury might be serious include unbearable pain, loss of bowel or bladder control, worsening numbness or tingling, and weakness in the arms or legs. These symptoms require immediate medical evaluation.


What are the typical treatments for acute back injuries and exacerbated spinal conditions?

Typical treatments for acute back injuries and exacerbated spinal conditions include rest, pain management, physical therapy, and in some cases, surgery. The specific treatment depends on the severity and nature of the injury.


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2 Comments


Margot#4035

10 mo ago

If you were a family member I'd bring you to the ER right away. It sounds like you might have injured your back and given your history of spine injuries this could be serious. At the same, not sure if the arm numbness/tingling and shooting sciatic leg pain are new or occured after this recent injury? if recent then 100% please go to the ER right now

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Margot#4035

10 mo ago

I guess this is from yesterday. Did you end up seeing a doctor yet? How are you doing?

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