[48F] Experiencing lower back pain and numbness in hands

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, possible explanations for your symptoms include:

• Lumbar Radiculopathy: This condition, also known as sciatica, occurs when a nerve root in the lower spine is compressed, causing pain and numbness in the back and radiating down the legs. However, you mentioned that your pain does not radiate, which makes this less likely.

  • Treatment typically involves physical therapy, pain medication, and in some cases surgery.

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This is a common condition that causes numbness, tingling, and other symptoms in the hand and arm. Carpal tunnel syndrome is caused by a compressed nerve in the carpal tunnel, a narrow passageway on the palm side of your wrist.

  • Treatment typically involves wrist splinting, avoiding activities that worsen symptoms, and in severe cases, surgery.

• Breast Lump: There are many possible causes for a lump in the breast, ranging from benign (non-cancerous) conditions like cysts and fibroadenomas to malignant (cancerous) conditions like breast cancer. Given your age and the duration of the lump, it is important to get this checked out by a healthcare professional.

  • Treatment depends on the cause of the lump. Benign lumps may not require treatment, while malignant lumps may require surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these.

Remember, I am an AI and not a doctor. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional who can evaluate your symptoms and medical history to provide a diagnosis.

What you can do

1. For your back pain, try over-the-counter pain relievers and apply heat or cold to the painful area. Regular exercise can also help strengthen your back and improve your posture.
2. For your hand and arm symptoms, try taking frequent breaks from activities that make your symptoms worse. Wrist splints worn at night may also help.
3. For the lump in your breast, it's important to see a healthcare professional as soon as possible for an evaluation. They may order imaging tests like a mammogram or ultrasound, or a biopsy to determine the cause of the lump.

What you should look out for

Reasons to seek immediate medical attention:

• If your back pain becomes severe or is accompanied by fever, unexplained weight loss, or other systemic symptoms.
• If your hand and arm symptoms worsen or are accompanied by weakness or loss of muscle mass.
• If the lump in your breast grows in size, changes shape, or is accompanied by other symptoms like nipple discharge, skin changes, or pain.